This Powerful Yet Peaceful Monument Memorializes New Mexico's Vietnam Veterans
By Monica Spencer|Published November 10, 2020
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
Did you know New Mexico has approximately 75 memorials dedicated to the soldiers who have served this country? Awhile back, station KRQE published an interactive map that details where each of these monuments stands. If you’re not sure where to start, we recommend checking out the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Angel Fire.
Sitting just north of Angel Fire in the Moreno Valley, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a serene spot created in honor of those who served in the armed forces.
The chapel, seen above, was constructed in 1971 by the parents of Marine Corps First Lieutenant David Westphall. Killed during an ambush near Con Thien in 1968, Westphall's parents dedicated the chapel in honor of their son and, as noted in a quote from his father, as "an enduring symbol of the tragedy and futility of war."
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The chapel is open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week as a place of refuge, reflection, and reverence.
The grounds and chapel are always open to the public. For additional information or to purchase items from the memorial’s gift shop, visit its website or Facebook page.
There are a number of other places around the state where you can pay tribute to New Mexico’s veterans at any time of year. You can read about a few locations that are lesser-known but still fascinating in 5 Little-Known Places In New Mexico That Honor Veterans.
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