The National Conference of Viet Nam Veteran Ministers, an organization composed of clergy who served in Viet Nam, meeting in Washington, DC on November 8 through 12, 1993, issued the following statement concerning the normalization of relationships between the government of the United States and the government of Viet Nam.
As we gather once more to reflect upon our participation in the conflict now years past, we remember the many who did not return home. We can read many of the names etched in the black marble of The Wall. Some names are not there, for their fate is not certain. Rumors of our comrades left behind as POW's continue; the fate of the MIA's remains an uneasy, open question.
Yet we are also aware that many of the soldiers of our former allies and enemies remain unaccounted for as well. We regret that a full accounting of the missing has not been possible, and indeed may never be possible.
While we do not minimize the pain of the families and comrades who may always wonder, we believe that the time has come to normalize relationships between the United States and Viet Nam. Over half the present population of Viet Nam has been born since the cessation of hostilities. It is time to come to know them.
Perhaps increasing economic, political and social ties may lead to some answers about those who remain missing. It is likely that open access to the people of Viet Nam may shed new light on the connection between chemical agents used by the United States in Viet Nam and current health problems afflicting veterans.
We urge the President to immediately act to lift present restrictions and begin the process of normalizing relationships.
Return to Peace and Justice Statements.