The Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial will be located to the west of Sumtur Amphitheater. Mayor David Black, Governor Pete Ricketts and Former Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel were among the speakers at the ceremonial groundbreaking for the memorial.
The NVVMF Groundbreaking made us all proud! Many of the NVVMF Honorary Committee members were present along with donors and Vietnam Veterans for this major event. Pageantry included the Papillion LaVista South High School NJROTC posting and retiring the colors as well as a ceremonial US flag held high by two fire trucks.
Let us acknowledge Chuck Hagel for his inspiring keynote presentation. He, along with the other speakers – NVVMF Board member Mick Wagoner, Mary Hawkins, and Governor Pete Ricketts ensured that Vietnam Veterans Day was very well honored in Nebraska!
Mayor Black as master of ceremonies led us through the occasion very respectfully despite the windy afternoon. In addition, the City of Papillion coordinated the Groundbreaking logistics at the SumTur Amphitheater with Board member Lisa Cuevas-Jorgensen. Thanks to the NVVMF Board and all those who volunteered to make this a stellar event.
Without the dedicated commitment of the NVVMF Board, their partnership with City of Papillion, Bellevue University, Prohaska Architects, PJS and many, many others this project would not be where it is today. Thank you to a stellar group who have a vision and mission to highlight Nebraskan’s who took an oath to protect and defend America, and to remember and teach all future generations that those who served, served without regrets for our Freedom!
Dottie Barickman
Great event and all of us veterans that were there are deeply appreciative of all the efforts and thoughtfulness that went into this event! THANK YOU!!