Queens Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Queens Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a profound tribute in Elmhurst Park. This significant memorial honors the 371 Queens residents who died or went missing during the Vietnam War, offering a vital space for remembrance and reflection. Dedicated in December 2019, it stands as the borough's first memorial specifically for Vietnam veterans, recognizing their sacrifice after decades of advocacy. Its thoughtful design creates an intimate environment for visitors to connect with the personal stories and broader history of the conflict.

The memorial features two semi-circular walls crafted from Barre Grey Granite, encompassing a slightly sunken elliptical space. One wall is powerfully inscribed with the names of the fallen service members, along with their ages at death, and a comprehensive timeline of the war. The opposite wall showcases an etched bamboo motif, symbolizing a common element of the Vietnam War, and bears engravings of the five military service crests and the Vietnam Service Medal. In the center, a granite map of Vietnam highlights key locations, drawing visitors into the historical context.

This memorial provides a serene and contemplative setting, making it an essential visit for anyone seeking to honor the sacrifices made by Queens' service members. The intentional landscaping, with plantings selected to display green, yellow, and red fall colors echoing the Vietnam Service Medal Ribbon, adds a poignant touch, especially around Veterans Day. Whether for quiet contemplation, historical learning, or attending small commemorative gatherings, the Queens Vietnam Veterans Memorial leaves a lasting impression of gratitude and solemn respect. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.