Queens Vietnam Veterans Memorial, War memorial in Queens, New York City
The Queens Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a memorial site in Elmhurst Park dedicated to 371 residents from Queens who died or went missing during the Vietnam War. The site features two gray stone walls with engraved names, a granite map showing Vietnam and surrounding areas, and a bench for visitors to sit and reflect.
Planning for the memorial began in the 2000s with community fundraising and support from local leaders. The site was officially opened on December 20, 2019, and stands as the first memorial in Queens to honor all residents who served in the Vietnam War and either died or went missing.
The memorial's name directly references the soldiers from Queens who served in the Vietnam War. Visitors come here especially on remembrance days to pay respect and think about those who fought, making it a focal point for community reflection and honor.
The memorial is located in Elmhurst Park near the intersection of Grand Avenue and 79th Street and is accessible during park hours. Visitors should maintain a quiet and respectful tone while taking time to read the engraved names and inscriptions, and note that the walls are lit at night for viewing.
The memorial was vandalized with graffiti in 2021, prompting a strong community response that emphasized respect for the veterans and the site's significance. A veteran named Pat Toro spent years working to make the memorial a reality but passed away before its completion, and his efforts remain honored at the site.
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