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NEWBURGH, N.Y. -- The city of Newburgh hosts a memorial ceremony for Vietnam Veterans on Sunday.

Vets gathered to recognize Vietnam Veterans Day, which is every March 29th in the State of New York. But organizers said they planned the ceremony for Sunday to allow for a good turnout.

Dozens of Vietnam vets, as well as other war vets and local officials recognized the service provided by those involved in the Vietnam conflict. Orange County Legislator Mike Anagnostakis presented a distinguished service award to all of the Vietnam vets.

For many, the recognition is something they have been waiting on for a long time.

Ian M. Berkowitz, of the Hudson Highlands chapter said, “When they came back from 'Nam, VFW didn't always welcome them, American Legions didn't always welcome them. Unfortunately it took about 40 years for our government to recognize these guys served their country and deserve respect."

Anagnostakis said, "It's late, it's late by about 40 to 50 years but we're going to do it right now."

There is more legislation in the works to recognize Vietnam Veterans specifically. Back on February 20th, the House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill to designate March 30th as “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day.”

March 30th is the anniversary of the U.S. Armed Forces’ withdrawal from South Vietnam.