Vietnam Memorial, Philadelphia

The Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial, nestled at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia, stands as a tribute to the city's servicemen who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Vietnam War. Dedicated in 1987, this memorial honors 648 individuals who were either killed in action or listed as missing in action.

Designed by the local architect Perry M. Morgan, the memorial was selected through a national competition that drew 102 entries, reflecting a wide interest in commemorating the sacrifices made during the Vietnam War. The memorial's design resembles an amphitheater plaza, offering a peaceful setting. The south wall showcases soldiers' names in granite, honoring their bravery and sacrifice.

Ten panels chronicle key moments from the war, spanning its inception to the 1975 rescue of Vietnamese refugees. They provide a comprehensive narrative for educating visitors about the war's impact and history at the memorial.

The Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial serves as a place of remembrance and ongoing education, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund. They preserve and improve the memorial while also providing educational programs about the Vietnam War for future generations.

A seven-year restoration and redesign project, completed in 2015, made the memorial more accessible to visitors with disabilities. This commitment to inclusivity was further demonstrated in 2016, when the names of two additional soldiers were added to the wall, ensuring that the memorial accurately reflects the sacrifices made by Philadelphia's servicemen.