What do the symbols mean on the Vietnam Memorial wall?
The diamond symbol denotes that the service member is known dead or presumed dead; the cross symbol or plus symbol denotes that the service member was missing or prisoner status when The Wall was built in 1982 and remains unaccounted for today.
What was the controversy surrounding the Vietnam Memorial wall?
The design aroused a great deal of controversy, reflecting the lack of resolution of the national conflicts over the war as well as the lack of consensus over what constituted an appropriate memorial at the end of the 20th century.
What happens to things left at the Vietnam Memorial wall?
The National Park Service takes no responsibility for any object left at the memorial unless it is selected for the park’s museum collection. Items left at the Memorial are deemed to be the property of the National Park Service when voluntarily abandoned.
What is inscribed on the walls of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial?
The last casualties are listed on the bottom line of West Panel 1 above the date “1975.” The inscription at the apex of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial reads: (Top of The Wall) IN HONOR OF THE MEN AND WOMEN OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES WHO SERVED IN THE VIETNAM WAR.
Why was the Vietnam Veterans Memorial so shocking to some?
The moment plans for the memorial were unveiled, it was clear the structure would be immediately recognizable—and controversial. It was all the more astonishing because of its creator, an unknown, 21-year-old student with no professional experience.
Are names still added to the Vietnam Wall?
As for the status changes, the names are still recorded on The Wall. For those who’ve never seen The Wall in person, each name is also accompanied by a symbol. A diamond means the person was declared dead.
What is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall USA?
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall USA website is dedicated to honoring those who died in the Vietnam War. The Wall USA is a non-profit endeavor maintained by veterans of the 4th Battalion 9th Infantry Regiment for the benefit of all. To learn about us and how you can help maintain this site.
Why is the Vietnam Wall in chronological order?
“The chronological order allows veterans who were in a battle to see their friends forever united on the Wall,” he explained. “As she wisely predicted, this would help bring the veterans back in time—and a cathartic healing would occur for many by facing this loss again.”
What is the casualty date on the Vietnam Wall?
The casualty date is the date the person was killed or wounded in combat or injured during an accident; for the missing, the date is when the person was reported missing. The first two names listed on Panel 1, East Wall, at the apex are from July 8, 1959. On that panel, above the names is this inscription:
Why are names on the Vietnam Memorial in chronological order?
“The chronological order allows veterans who were in a battle to see their friends forever united on the Wall,” he explained. “As she wisely predicted, this would help bring the veterans back in time—and a cathartic healing would occur for many by facing this loss again.” Some common names appear on the Memorial more than once.