The conflict profoundly affected the American troops who served there, as well as the nation’s culture and politics. But 50 years later, veterans say they see its mistakes being repeated.

Vietnam’s top leader said his nation is ready to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s great powers, as tens of thousands gathered to watch a military parade marking 50 years since the end of the war and the defeat of the US-backed southern regime.

April 30 marks 50 years since the fall of Saigon, the moment that officially ended the Vietnam War. Nearly 58,000 Americans lost their lives in the conflict, and many veterans say the pain of how they were treated upon returning home still lingers.

The Vietnam War came to an end on April 30, 1975, when North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam. The fall of the city marked the end of the South Vietnamese government and decades of conflict.

The Vietnam War that ended after the fall of Saigon 50 years ago greatly impacted U.S. society. For some Americans, it still shapes their lives today.

Author Ralph White joins Morning Joe to discuss his book 'Getting Out of Saigon'.April 30, 2025