Dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial

November 13th, 1982

November 13th, 1982

Dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
How Long Ago?

42 years, 4 months, 2 days ago

Location

Washington, D.C., United States

Category

Military & Warfare

War/Conflict

Vietnam War

People
  • Ronald Reagan
  • Maya Lin
Links & References
Tags

Dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Thousands of Vietnam War veterans marched to the site of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., culminating in a solemn dedication ceremony. The memorial features a black granite wall inscribed with the names of over 58,000 servicemen and women who lost their lives during the Vietnam War. This momentous occasion served not only as a tribute to the fallen but also as recognition of the struggles faced by returning veterans. Their collective presence emphasized the importance of honoring those who served and the need for national healing from the divisive war.

Over 58,000 names inscribed on the wall.

Designed by architect Maya Lin.

Thousands of veterans participated in the march.

Speeches included notable figures like Ronald Reagan.

What Happened?

The dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., marked a significant moment for veterans and their families, symbolizing a long-awaited acknowledgment of the sacrifices made during the Vietnam War. Designed by architect Maya Lin and completed in 1982, the memorial consists of a black granite wall bearing the names of over 58,000 servicemen and women who died or are missing in action. The design was intentionally minimalist, aiming to evoke reflection and personal connection for visitors. On the day of the dedication, thousands of veterans, many in uniform, gathered to march to the site. This large turnout highlighted the emotional weight of their experiences and the collective memory of the war's impact on American society.During the dedication ceremony, notable speakers, including President Ronald Reagan and members of Congress, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the need for healing and unity. The event was marked by speeches, moments of silence, and the act of laying wreaths at the base of the wall. Families of the fallen were also present, adding a deeply personal element to the proceedings. The memorial quickly became a site of pilgrimage for veterans and their families, serving as a space to grieve, reflect, and honor loved ones. It remains an integral part of the national landscape, allowing for continued conversations about the Vietnam War and American values around service and sacrifice.

Why Does it Matter?

The dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is significant for its role in shifting the narrative around the Vietnam War and how veterans were treated. The memorial stands as a powerful symbol of reconciliation for a war that divided the nation. It prompted broader discussions about veteran affairs, the importance of recognizing sacrifices made in service, and healing cultural wounds, influencing how future conflicts would be remembered and honored.

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