NH Honors Vietnam Vets 40 Years After Returning From War

CONCORD, NH (CBS) - At a ceremony Saturday, New Hampshire honored Vietnam vets 40 years after they returned from war.

Many vets recall returning to home and facing protests and hatred, blamed for an unpopular war.

"That's why we came back in civilian clothes," explained Conrad Gagne. "Because the population back in the late 60's in this country thought we were bad people from Vietnam."

"Not only did we have to endure the insults, and putdowns by protestors," said John O'Brien, "but our leaders at the highest levels did little to ease our pain."

Saturday's ceremony was part of the state's way to right the wrong, with a new law marking March 30 as a day to honor Vietnam vets.

Governor Maggie Hassan says, "I hope that all Granite Staters will reach out to people they know who are serving now, who are veterans and especially for our Vietnam veterans reach out and let them know that we appreciate their service."

Veterans and Governor Hassan hope other states follow suit and proclaim March 30th as a day to honor veterans of the Vietnam War.