Senate votes to recognize Vietnam vets

Hartford, Conn. (AP) - The Connecticut Senate has given final legislative approval to a bill honoring veterans of the Vietnam War.

The Senate passed the bill on Thursday, sending it to Gov. M. Jodi Rell's desk for her signature. The vote was 35-0.

The bill sets aside March 30 as Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day in the state. During Thursday's debate, senators spoke of veterans being shunned after returning home from Vietnam decades ago.

Sen. Edwin Gomes says his brother was an Army veteran who served in Vietnam. The Bridgeport Democrat says his brother never told anyone he had earned the bronze star. He says his family only found out about the honor after his brother died.

The war ended in 1975. Proponents say the recognition is still important to those who served in Vietnam.