The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial, located in Holmdel, New Jersey, is a poignant and powerful tribute to the men and women who served our country during the Vietnam War. This hallowed ground honors the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as the countless others who bore the physical and emotional scars of combat.
A Legacy of Valor and Sacrifice
Established in 1995, the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial has become a sacred site for veterans, their families, and the entire community. The memorial features a series of granite panels inscribed with the names of the 1,751 New Jersey residents who lost their lives in Vietnam. Walking among these panels, visitors are overcome with a sense of reverence and gratitude for the sacrifices made by these brave individuals.
Honoring the Living Legends
Beyond the inscribed panels, the memorial also honors the thousands of New Jersey veterans who returned home from Vietnam forever changed by their experiences. The memorial’s “Wall of Service” recognizes the service of all Vietnam veterans, regardless of whether they were deployed to Vietnam. This inclusive approach ensures that every veteran who served our country during that tumultuous era is remembered for their valor and sacrifice.
A Place of Healing and Reflection
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial is not only a place of remembrance but also a sanctuary for healing and reflection. Visitors can find solace in the memorial’s peaceful surroundings, surrounded by nature’s beauty. The memorial’s “Pathway of Remembrance” leads visitors through a series of bronze sculptures depicting the different stages of a soldier’s journey from deployment to return home. These sculptures serve as a powerful reminder of the physical and emotional challenges faced by Vietnam veterans.
A Symbol of Community and Pride
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a symbol of the deep respect and gratitude that the people of New Jersey hold for their veterans. The memorial’s annual commemorative ceremonies draw thousands of visitors, demonstrating the enduring legacy of the Vietnam War and the unwavering support for those who served.
Design and Architecture
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a stunning work of architecture that seamlessly blends nature and art. The memorial’s central feature is a “Pyramid of Remembrance” made of black granite, symbolizing the lives lost in Vietnam. The pyramid is surrounded by a circular walkway with a series of granite panels inscribed with the names of the fallen. The memorial is situated on a hilltop overlooking the serene Holmdel Park, creating a breathtaking and contemplative environment.
Educational Impact
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial is not only a place of remembrance but also an educational resource. The memorial’s “Center for Education and Outreach” offers a range of programs and materials designed to educate visitors about the Vietnam War and its impact on veterans. These programs help foster understanding and bridge the gap between generations, ensuring that the lessons of the past are never forgotten.
Economic Impact
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial has also had a significant economic impact on the surrounding area. The memorial attracts thousands of visitors each year, many of whom spend money at local businesses and restaurants. This influx of tourism has helped to boost the local economy and create jobs.
Statistics and Data
- Number of New Jersey residents who died in Vietnam: 1,751
- Number of panels inscribed with the names of the fallen: 14
- Height of the “Pyramid of Remembrance”: 60 feet
- Area of the memorial: 6 acres
- Annual number of visitors: Approximately 100,000
Tables
Table 1: Major Funding Sources for the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial
| Source | Amount |
|---|---|
| State of New Jersey | $1.5 million |
| Private donations | $1.2 million |
| Federal grants | $500,000 |
| Corporate sponsorships | $250,000 |
Table 2: Educational Programs Offered at the Center for Education and Outreach
| Program | Description |
|---|---|
| Guided tours | Interpretive tours of the memorial and discussion of the Vietnam War |
| Classroom presentations | Presentations for students on various aspects of the Vietnam War |
| Teacher workshops | Professional development workshops for teachers on incorporating the Vietnam War into their curricula |
| Community events | Public events such as lectures, film screenings, and panel discussions |
Table 3: Visitor demographics
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Veterans | 50% |
| Family members of veterans | 20% |
| Students | 15% |
| General public | 15% |
Table 4: Economic impact of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial
| Impact | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tourism revenue | $5 million annually |
| Job creation | 100 full-time and part-time jobs |
| Property values | Increase in property values in the surrounding area |
