A Celebration of Character & Courage | FAQ
When and where is the event?
January 13, 2024, at 4 p.m. ET at the Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Avenue, Washington, DC. The event will last approximately one hour.
How do I register?
Reserve your free tickets here.
What are the parking arrangements and directions?
The National Cathedral parking garage is free for the first 300 vehicles. All vehicles will need to be removed from the garage by 6 p.m. Street parking is also available. The National Cathedral is approximately one mile from the metro stop at Cleveland Park (via the red line).
Who is invited?
All are welcome to attend. Vietnam War Veterans, returned Prisoners of War, Medal of Honor Recipients, Gold Star Families, POW/MIA Families, and the families of those who died as a result of the war will be given priority seating, as will the government agencies and nonprofit organizations that support them.
Are there options for those who cannot attend in person?
The event will be livestreamed on YouTube here. It will also be broadcast live by Wreaths Across America Radio and select iHeartRadio stations.
What is the purpose of this event?
To thank and honor our Vietnam War Veterans; to illuminate the legacy of service; to draw inspiration from the character, courage, resolve and legacy of our Vietnam War Veterans and their families both during the Vietnam War and since; and to renew our nation’s commitment to the fullest possible accounting for our missing.
What is the dress code?
Service dress or business attire.
Is this a religious event?
Faith played a central role in the well-being of many Vietnam War Veterans and their families both during and following the Vietnam War—more than 90% of those listed on The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall identified as religious. This will be a gathering with representatives from all faiths and will focus on heritage, spiritual wellness, and healing.
Who is speaking at the event?
This approximately one-hour program will feature remarks from Gen. Dennis J. Reimer, USA (Ret.), the U.S. Army Chief of Staff from 1995 to 1999; Colleen C. Shine, an advocate for national POW/MIA accountability and the daughter of Lt. Col. Anthony C. Shine, USAF, who was MIA from 1972-1996); and more.
Who is hosting this event?
This is an official Vietnam War Commemorative Partner event hosted by the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) and 40 supporting organizations, including the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA); Veterans Affairs (VA); Vietnam Veterans of America; VFW; AMVETS; American Legion; American Gold Star Mothers; Gold Star Wives of America; Sons and Daughters in Touch—America’s Gold Star Children from the Vietnam War; Rolling to Remember; Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Foundation; Mission: POW-MIA; USO; MOAA; Congressional Medal of Honor Society; The Woody Williams Foundation; Travis Manion Foundation; The Gary Sinise Foundation; and Honor Flight. The Military District of Washington Honor Guard will post the colors and Wreaths Across America will provide the Armed Forces Wreath.
What hotel arrangements are available?
Suggested hotels are listed below.
| Washington Hilton 1919 Connecticut Ave NW Washington, DC 20009 Website | Capital Hilton 1001 16th St NW Washington, DC 20036 Website |
| Crystal Gateway Marriott 1700 Richmond Hwy Arlington, VA 22202 Website | The Westin Crystal City Reagan National Airport 1800 Richmond Hwy Arlington, VA 22202 Website |
Is transportation available between the hotels, Cathedral, and Hilton reception?
Yes. Find our shuttle schedule here.
What is the significance of this date?
As a Commemorative Partner to OSD’s Vietnam War Commemoration, this is AFA’s capstone event to recognize the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War and the return of our POWs. January 13 was the closest date available at the Cathedral to the Peace Accords, which were signed on January 29, 1973, and would end U.S. combat operations in Vietnam.