The vision to design and to construct a statewide memorial to the Commonwealth's veterans of the Vietnam conflict began in Boston in the 1980's with the formation of the Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund. This group said their sole purpose was, "to establish a permanent tribute to those Massachusetts citizens who answered the call of their country, and made the supreme sacrifice in the name of freedom and democracy during the Vietnam conflict (1955 -1975)." They went on to proclaim that "this long overdue tribute will be dedicated in time for Harborpark Day (September, 1988)." The proposal recommended that the Memorial be built in the Charlestown Navy Yard.

As this first Massachusetts attempt failed, other states continued to pay tribute to those that served and died in Southeast Asia. A group in Worcester picked up the torch and formed the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Trust and initiated a statewide design competition in 1989. The team of Harby, Rogers and Catanzaro of Belmont, Massachusetts ultimately won this competition. Their design is comprised of three PLACES. These PLACES are a PLACE OF FLAGS, a PLACE OF WORDS, and a PLACE OF NAMES

Construction of Place of Words

The PLACE OF WORDS consists of an area where the words of veterans are etched in stone for all to see and contemplate. The writings in the PLACE OF WORDS are the text from letters written home by 13 Massachusetts servicemen who died in Vietnam. For veterans, Gold Star family members, and the citizens, this space is a place of knowledge, reflection, and understanding for those who gave their life for freedom.

Construction of Place of Names

The PLACE OF NAMES proclaims, in stone, the names of 1,536 Massachusetts men and 1 woman veteran who remain missing or who died in combat as a result of wounds received while in action in Vietnam. Forever more will those who visit this PLACE see the names of those who answered the call and remain forever young. The complex is located on four acres and consists of a pond, walking paths, the Memorials and provides a dignified, quiet, natural location for reflection and learning. The Massachusetts Legislature earmarked over $1.4 million dollars for the project and private donations were raised for the program and dedication weekend which took place June 9, 2002. Since that date 8 additional names have been added to the Memorial. The Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans Memorial was a long time coming and many thanks go the Legislature, the Department of Veterans Services, the City of Worcester, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Trust and those who kept this dream alive.