Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial: Honoring the Fallen and Remembering the Brave

In Papillion, Nebraska, the newly completed Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to the 400 Nebraskan soldiers who lost their lives in the Vietnam War. The memorial, located near 108th and Schram, serves as a place for veterans, families, and the public to remember the sacrifices of those who served.

A Place of Reflection and Camaraderie

Among those visiting the memorial is 74-year-old Vietnam veteran Roger Acklie, who finds comfort in this place of shared memories. “It’s a thing veterans do…just the camaraderie between us and each other,” Ackliere flects as he looks at photos from his service days, now displayed on the walls of the memorial alongside those of other Nebraskan veterans.

The Vision Behind the Memorial

The Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial was a seven-year project spearheaded by President Tom Brown, whose vision was to create a space that honors veterans while providing a rich historical context. The $7 million project, completed in May, features an array of symbolic elements, including an obelisk marking each year of the war, a restored UH-1 Huey helicopter, and walls etched with the names of those who served, both fallen and surviving.

A Tribute That Echoes Through History

While the memorial’s dedication on the 80th anniversary of D-Day was coincidental, the timing reinforces the broader legacy of military service. For many, walking through the memorial evokes memories of those who sacrificed their lives for their country, and it stands as a testament to their courage and dedication.

The Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial is free and open to the public, offering a space to honor and remember. If you’re near Papillion, take a moment to visit this powerful tribute.