California III

There last few shots highlight some of the remaining components of the site. As promised earlier, the first and second shots are of the dedication plaque and statue. The plaque below the statue gives some info on each of the elements within the memorial.

The third shot is of a map of Vietnam. It is pretty detailed with names of many familiar places. A compass rose is located nearby.

The fourth pic is of a plaque placed above the map reminding us of the most infamous of the prison camps in 'Nam and what these heroes withstood.

The last pic is of a fairly well known poem by Maj. Michael O'Donnell included here so that we might always remember.


"Take what they have left you
and what they have taught you
with their dying
and keep it with your own

And in that time when men decide
and feel safe
to call the war insane

Take one moment to embrace
those gentle heroes
You left behind"

It seems fitting to me that the California memorial should be grand. California lost more of her sons and daughters to this effort than any other state; 5822 lost or missing.