50 years since end of Vietnam War
A commemorative ceremony was held Sunday in Oklahoma City's Asian District, recognizing the fall of Saigon, 50 years ago this week.
The capital of South Vietnam was captured by North Vietnam. Thousands of U.S. personnel and South Vietnamese citizens were evacuated, marking the end of the Vietnam War.
Military Park was filled with politicians, veterans and people of Vietnamese heritage who immigrated to Oklahoma at the end of the war. While many said it's a somber occasion, attendees also said it serves as an opportunity to recognize the contributions of the Asian community to Oklahoma.
"The Vietnamese American community is so honored to be here, and we deeply appreciate the opportunities that we have, and we hope to continue to contribute to our American community and Oklahoma, as well," Natalie Mai, an Oklahoma County district judge, said.
Mai was one of dozens of Vietnamese Americans present for the ceremony.
She said she is proud of her heritage. She is a child of a Vietnamese boat refugee, and she is an immigrant herself who moved to the U.S. in 1989.
Attendees said they want to continue to educate the next generation on the history of Vietnam and American culture, so the stories and the sacrifices made aren't forgotten.
An art piece of a boat will be on display in Military Park for years to come as a reminder of that history. The art represents the resilience of refugees who came to America seeking a new life.