Finding a Name on the Vietnam War Memorial: A Guide
The Vietnam War Memorial, also known as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, is a poignant tribute to the men and women who served in the United States Armed Forces during the Vietnam War. The memorial, designed by architect Maya Lin, bears the names of over 58,000 American service members who made the ultimate sacrifice during the conflict. If you’re searching for a specific name on the memorial, this guide will walk you through the steps to find it.
How to Find a Name on the Vietnam War Memorial
Step 1: Prepare Your Information
Before you start searching, gather the following information:
• Name: The first and last name of the service member you’re looking for.
• Rank: The service member’s rank at the time of their service.
• Branch: The branch of the military the service member served in (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard).
• State: The state where the service member was from.
• Date of Death: The date the service member died.
Step 2: Use Online Resources
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has created an online database, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund’s Wall of Faces, which allows you to search for names on the memorial. You can access the database through the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund’s website.
- Search by Name: Enter the service member’s name in the search box, and you’ll receive a list of matching names. If you’re not sure of the exact spelling, try searching with alternative spellings or nicknames.
- Search by State: Enter the state where the service member was from, and you’ll receive a list of matching names.
- Search by Date of Death: Enter the date the service member died, and you’ll receive a list of matching names.
Step 3: Visit the Memorial
If you’re unable to find the name you’re looking for online or prefer to visit the memorial in person, follow these steps:
- Arrive Early: Get to the memorial early to avoid crowds and long lines.
- Find the Wall: The Vietnam War Memorial is located in Constitution Gardens, near the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The memorial is a black granite wall, inscribed with the names of the fallen service members.
- Search the Wall: Start at one end of the wall and work your way down, scanning the inscriptions for the name you’re looking for. You can also ask park rangers or volunteers for assistance.
Tips and Tricks
- Be Patient: Finding a name on the memorial can take time, so be prepared to spend several hours searching.
- Bring a Camera: Take photos of the names you find, as well as the surrounding area, to help you remember your visit.
- Respect the Memorial: Remember to respect the memorial and the service members whose names are inscribed on it. Avoid touching or damaging the wall, and refrain from making loud noises or using flash photography.
Conclusion
Finding a name on the Vietnam War Memorial requires patience, persistence, and attention to detail. By following these steps and using online resources, you can locate the name of a service member and pay your respects to their memory. Remember to respect the memorial and the service members it honors, and take the time to reflect on the sacrifices made during the Vietnam War.
Additional Resources
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund: The official website of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, which provides information on the memorial, as well as online resources for searching names.
- National Archives and Records Administration: The website of the National Archives and Records Administration, which provides information on the Vietnam War and its veterans.
- Vietnam War Records: A website that provides access to Vietnam War records, including casualty lists and unit histories.
Table: Vietnam War Memorial Statistics
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Names on the Memorial | 58,220 |
| Total Casualties | 2,709,918 |
| Total Deaths | 58,220 |
| Total Wounded | 303,704 |
| Total Missing in Action | 2,500 |
Note: The statistics above are subject to change and may not reflect the most up-to-date information.
