Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park

Located in the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northeastern New Mexico, Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park pays homage to the soldiers who served in the Vietnam War. It stands alone as the only state park in the United States of America that serves as memorial to the service of these soldiers. Due to this unique dedication, thousands visit the memorial each year.

History

The vision for this state park began with a couple, Victor and Jeanne Westphall, whose son served and died in the Vietnam War. An ambush killed him and 16 members of his unit in 1968. After his death the couple used money collected from their son's insurance policy to construct the Peace and Brotherhood Chapel. The chapel, which bears the shape of sail and lies at the top of a hill, finally opened in 1971 and remains open 24-hours per day.

Visitor Center

In addition to the Chapel, a visitor center opened in 1986 that seeks to provide Americans with an education regarding the Vietnam War. A Huey helicopter, which flew a great number of missions in Vietnam, highlights the center. It also features a documentary, Dear America: Letters Home from Vietnam, that provides a glimpse of the anguish and hopes found in the letters of soldiers at war.

While many vacations bring about joy and festivities, a time remains for exploring the painful history of the Vietnam War. Visitors to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park find themselves moved by remembering those who have fought bravely for their country. Visiting this park proves worthy of consideration and surely brings about growth in all who remember the sacrifice of the soldier of the Vietnam War.