NEW : Facing a tough re-election campaign this year , Obama avoided direct political references but made sure to emphasize his administration 's efforts to help returning war veterans . President Obama calls the denigration of Vietnam veterans a `` national shame '' `` America will be there for you , '' he said in his speech to Congress on Tuesday. Memorial Day launches a 13-year commemoration of the Vietnam War 's 50th anniversary . Obama lays a wreath to the fallen at Arlington National Cemetery .
NEW : President Obama calls the denigration of Vietnam veterans a `` national shame '' `` America will be there for you , '' he said in his speech to Congress on Tuesday. Memorial Day launches a 13-year commemoration of the Vietnam War 's 50th anniversary . Obama lays a wreath to the fallen at Arlington National Cemetery .