The 2008 National Defense Authorization Act (Public Law 110-181 § 598) empowers the Secretary of Defense to conduct a program on behalf of the nation that commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. This law also authorizes the Secretary to coordinate, support and facilitate federal, state and local government commemorative programs and activities. To that end, 'The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration" was formed. Following in the footsteps of commemorations honoring military service in World War II and Korea, this national endeavor is hometown-centric and supported by more than 11,000 Commemortive Partners across America. By presidential proclamation on May 25, 2012, the Commemoration extends from Memorial Day 2012 through Veterans Day 2025. Congress articulated five objectives for this Commemoration, most importantly: to thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War, including personnel who were held as prisoners of war, or listed as missing in action, for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States and to thank and honor the families of these veterans. On March 28, 2017, the president signed into law The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017 (Public Law 115-15), designating every March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day.