The Memorial

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial stands as a symbol of America's honor and recognition of the men and women who served and sacrificed their lives in the Vietnam War. Inscribed on the black granite walls are the names of more than 58,000 men and women who gave their lives or remain missing. Yet the Memorial itself is dedicated to honor the "courage, sacrifice and devotion to duty and country" of all who answered the call to serve during the longest war in U.S. history.

The Vietnam Veteran's Memorial Fund, Inc. is the 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization authorized by Congress in 1980 to fund and build the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Incorporated on April 27, 1979 by a group of veterans led by Jan C. Scruggs, who was wounded and decorated for service in Vietnam, the organization sought a tangible symbol of recognition from the American people for those who served in the war.

By separating the issue of individuals serving in the military during the Vietnam era and U.S. policy carried out there, VVMF hoped to begin a process of national reconciliation. Two members of the U.S. Senate, Charles Mathias (R-Md.) and John Warner (R-Va.), took the lead in Congress to enact legislation providing three acres in the northwest corner of the National Mall as a site for the Memorial.  It was dedicated on Nov. 13, 1982.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Since its dedication, The Wall has transcended the vision of its founders to become much more than just another memorial in a city filled with memorials. Read More >>



Three Servicemen Statue

Three servicemen stand watch over their comrades in arms whose names are on The Wall. Learn the history of this iconic statue. Read More >>



Vietnam Women's Memorial

Thousands of women served in-country during the Vietnam War, and eight women’s names are on The Wall. This statue remembers and pays tribute to them all. Read More >>



In Memory Plaque

This plaque honors all who died as a result of the Vietnam War but who do not meet Department of Defense criteria to have their names added to The Wall. Read More >>



Volunteers

Nearly 100 individuals from around the United States give their time to help visitors at the Memorial and assist VVMF in its many programs. Read More >>



Memorial Preservation

VVMF takes an active role in caring for The Wall and maintaining the entire Memorial site, including the statues, flagpole, directory stands and lawn. Read More >>



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    The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund takes our stewardship of your donations seriously. The programs we fund are designed to help us achieve our mission of preserving the legacy of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, promoting healing and educating about the impact of the Vietnam War.