Minnesotans are recognizing the state's first-ever Vietnam Veterans Day.

As Joel Runck tells us, a Duluth business was saying thanks with food.

Embers may be known for it's great breakfast dishes and friendly service.

But today Duluth Grill Embers took their hospitality a step further by saying thank-you to Vietnam Vets and offering them free meals.

"I've told our staff that we don't know who a veteran is in our restaurant, but they know who they are. And it's time for us to pull them out and put them front and center and make them-and put together a special day for them," said Tom Hanson, manager of Duluth Grill Embers.

While veterans say the bill doesn't involve any monetary appropriations, former servicemen say the local gestures are what matter most.

"It's unbelievable, I would never have though that this many years later, we would be honored for our service," said Rod Radich, Vietnam War veteran.

Veterans at Duluth Grill Embers say while you may disagree with current and previous wars-nonetheless vets add that it's important to honor those who have served and to respect those currently serving overseas.

"You shouldn't tie the war and the warrior together," said Brad Bennett, Vietnam War Veteran. "You can hate the wr, you know I don't like what's going on in Iraq, I don't necessarily love the war, but I do respect and honor the men and women that put the uniform on."

However, being recognized has not always been easy for veterans.

"It's always been a situation where the first 10 or 12 years, because of the political nature of the war, we didn't want to admit we were Vietnam Veterans," said Bennett.

As the years go by, Vets hope to remember March 29th and spend less time dealing with the political aspects of the war.

"30 some years later, hopefully we can put those aside and encompass all of us as true patriots," said Radich.

Today reflects when the last U-S ground troops left Vietnam 35 years ago on March 29th 19-73.