‘In Memory’ program honors sacrifice of Vietnam veterans

(Feb. 19, 2021) Local people with friends or relatives whose lives were cut short after returning home from service during the Vietnam War now have a unique opportunity to honor their loved ones.  

Applications are being accepted for the “In Memory” program offered through the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, and in conjunction with the Wall That Heals exhibit coming to Ocean Pines this April. 

“In Memory” honors Vietnam veterans who returned home and later died as a result of their service, but whose deaths do not fit the Department of Defense parameters for inclusion on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. All who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War may be honored, and there is no charge for this service. 

Applications may include a typed biography of no more than 300 words, to be used for the virtual “In Memory” honor roll.   

Local applications submitted by March 5 will be displayed on the Wall That Heals exhibit in Ocean Pines, and in each touring exhibit thereafter.  

In addition, an “In Memory” ceremony is held once a year at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.  

During the ceremony, names are read aloud, by family members if present, and then later included with the submitted biography on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial website where family and friends may leave messages of remembrance.  

“In Memory” applications are available at the Ocean Pines Administration Building and Ocean Pines Golf Club, and at select local restaurants.   

Applications may also be obtained by contacting Larry Perrone at 443-513-1407, or Marie Gilmore at 410-726-2881.   

For more information on the Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation or the Wall That Heals exhibit, visit www.opvets.org.   

For information on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, visit www.vvmf.org.