Wondering why the American flags were out on Wednesday?

Wednesday was one of the lesser-known holidays of the year--but an important one nonetheless.

"Vietnam Veterans Day" recognizes the soldiers who served in that war and their families.

There is not universal agreement as to the date of the holiday--most states observe it on March 29th or March 30th, but a few celebrate on other days of the year.

The federal government recognizes March 29th, since that is the day in 1973 when the last combat troops were withdrawn from Vietnam and is also the date selected by President Nixon for the first Vietnam Veterans Day in 1974.  The state of Iowa recognizes March 30th as Vietnam Veterans Day, but the City of Decorah typically puts out flags on the federal holiday.