How to Find a Name on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, also known as "The Wall," is a poignant tribute to the men and women who served in the United States Armed Forces during the Vietnam War. The memorial is inscribed with the names of more than 58,000 service members who made the ultimate sacrifice. If you’re searching for a specific name on the memorial, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find it.
Before You Start
Before you begin your search, it’s essential to have the following information:
- The service member’s name (first and last)
- Branch of service (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard)
- Date of birth
- Date of death
Having this information will make it easier to locate the name on the memorial.
Searching Online
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) offers an online search tool that allows you to search for names on the memorial. To use this tool, follow these steps:
- Go to the VVMF website (www.vvmf.org)
- Click on the "Find a Name" tab
- Enter the service member’s name in the search bar
- Select the branch of service and date of birth (if known)
- Click "Search"
The search results will display a list of names that match your search criteria. You can filter the results by clicking on the "Filter Results" button and selecting options such as "Date of Death" or "State of Residence."
Searching at the Memorial
If you’re planning to visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in person, you can search for names on the memorial itself. The memorial is divided into two sections, with the names listed in chronological order by date of death. Here’s how to search:
- Approach the memorial and look for the alphabetical index panels. These panels list the names of service members in alphabetical order by last name.
- Find the last letter of the service member’s last name and look for the corresponding panel.
- Scan the panel for the service member’s name.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips to help you find a name on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial:
- Be patient: The memorial is long, and it may take some time to find the name you’re looking for.
- Use the index panels: The index panels are a great resource for finding names quickly.
- Check for variations in spelling: Names may be listed with variations in spelling, so be sure to check for common misspellings.
- Look for additional information: The memorial also includes additional information such as the service member’s rank, branch of service, and dates of birth and death.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about finding a name on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial:
- How do I know if the name is on the memorial?: If the name is on the memorial, it will be listed on the VVMF website. You can also search for the name on the memorial itself.
- What if the name is not on the memorial?: If the name is not on the memorial, it may be because the service member’s remains were never recovered or identified.
- Can I leave a personal item on the memorial?: No, personal items are not allowed on the memorial. You can, however, place a flower or a note in the memorial’s In Memory Book.
Conclusion
Finding a name on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a meaningful and emotional experience. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to locate the name of the service member you’re searching for. Remember to be patient and respectful, and take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in the Vietnam War.
Table: Vietnam Veterans Memorial Facts
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | 246.5 feet |
| Height | 10.1 feet |
| Number of names | 58,152 |
| Branches of service | Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard |
| Date of dedication | November 13, 1982 |
Table: Tips for Searching for a Name
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Be patient | Take your time and don’t rush the search process. |
| Use the index panels | The index panels are a great resource for finding names quickly. |
| Check for variations in spelling | Names may be listed with variations in spelling, so be sure to check for common misspellings. |
| Look for additional information | The memorial also includes additional information such as the service member’s rank, branch of service, and dates of birth and death. |
Conclusion
Finding a name on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a meaningful and emotional experience. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to locate the name of the service member you’re searching for. Remember to be patient and respectful, and take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in the Vietnam War.
