As we look to the future, we are guided by the past. Over the last 20 years, we have learned that a place of quiet reflection can be used by others for destructive sport or mindless vandalism. To make the Memorial more inviting and meaningful, while improving the security of the site, the Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund is proposing a modification of the layout of the Memorial at Front and Spruce streets.
In the wake of recent vandalism at the Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a new redesign concept will be unveiled prior to the annual Memorial Day ceremonies on May 26 at noon at the site at Front and Spruce streets.
The concept suggests opening the wall of Vietnam scenes along Spruce Street to provide better visibility for police and make it a less desirable location for vandals, such as those who two weeks ago smashed wreaths and desecrated the enclosed Memorial.
“The Memorial has been the subject of reprehensible acts by vandals and others virtually since it was built 20 years ago,” said Terry Williamson, president of the Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund. “Cameras, police patrols and other measures are no substitute for sending a message that these acts of dishonor will now have to be done in public view.”
The PVVMAF wishes to thank the Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local #1 for placing a full-page advertisement in the 20th anniversary program book. The ad missed the first run of the books but is included in additional copies that were distributed during Veterans Day on November 11 and in subsequent mailings.
The Fund also thanks Frank Strocen of Frank’s Family Deli &Catering and other patrons whose recognition was not in the originally published book. They are Eric & Nancy Morgan, Wes & Ruth Carver Jr., George E. Gunning Jr., Robert J. and Maureen A. Bifolco and Roberts Family and Sports Chiropractic.
Apparel featuring the memorial logo is available through the pvvm.org web site. Baseball caps are priced at $15, “T” shirts with the names of the 646 on the back are priced at $15 for large up to $18 for 3X and golf shirts are available for $30 for large up to $35 for 3X.
If you’re interested, please send us an e-mail by clicking the following link:
http://pvvm.org/main/modules/contact/
Fill in the information in the form and click the submit button when finished.
PLEASE INCLUDE A PHONE # SO WE CAN CONTACT YOU WITH INFORMATION ON PLACING YOUR ORDER
Eventually photos and an order form will be posted on the web site.
Pictured above: "Supreme Court Justice Ronald D. Castille Delivers Remarks. Behind him from left to right: Adrian Cronauer, Ron Naples, Terry Williamson and Dick Pinter listen.
Noting that the spirit of the 646 resides at the Memorial which “we consider to be sacred ground,” Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice Ronald D. Castille delivered the keynote address at the rededication ceremonies on October 27.
“Most of us returned home somewhat battered, somewhat broken and perhaps even disillusioned,” Justice Castille added. Veterans of current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan will face their own challenges. “We face a new war, a war of global dimensions… with no foreseeable end, “he said. “Sadly we will build more memorials to new generations of warrior heroes.”