Dedicated to the men and women who served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America during the Vietnam War, Western Slope Vietnam War Memorial Park has become an important landmark in Fruita, Colorado. The monument has come to provide a sense of connection for both residents and visitors, defining a place in the hearts and minds of audiences across the eras.
A Place of Reverence and Connection
Designed to honor those who served in the Vietnam War, but especially those who were killed, disabled, missing or taken prisoner, the Western Slope Vietnam War Memorial Park began as an endeavor by Jim Doody to honor his brother who was lost in the war. Numerous organizations and people made donations to make the memorial a reality.
The United States Army donated the UH-1H huey helicopter for static display. The “Welcome Home Memorial” sculpture depicts a mother and father welcoming home their service person returning home from a tour of duty. The names of the men from the Western Slope who were lost have a special representation incorporated into the memorial as part of the Wall of Honor, which lists the names of veterans in distinct ways.
Anyone can donate to the memorial or purchase a brick with a name that is added to the Wall of Honor, enabling a powerful means of continual revenue for stakeholders. Donations can be made to the memorial at any time, with specific placement for anyone who served in any branch of the military between the years 1959-1975.
The Western Slope Vietnam War Memorial Park brings the community together on multiple levels, including for organized events like the annual Veterans Day Ceremony. Located just outside the Colorado Welcome Center, it has become a hub of activity for the benefit of stakeholders and the entire Fruita community.
Utilizing a Space and Legacy
Located in heart of Fruita just off a major highway, Western Slope Vietnam War Memorial Park resides in a visible area of the community that would be otherwise empty. That such a powerful landmark has been erected in such a prominent space showcases what it can mean for stakeholders to utilize this kind of location to create engagement that attracts the attention of audiences in the present and future.
