The plaque that honors these veterans was dedicated as a part of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in 2004. It reads:  In Memory of the men and women who served in the Vietnam War and later died as a resu
The plaque that honors these veterans was dedicated as a part of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in 2004. It reads: In Memory of the men and women who served in the Vietnam War and later died as a resu

Resource Spotlight: In Memory Program Honors Vietnam Veterans

Author: SLO County Veterans Services Office
Date: 3/1/2018 8:43:13 AM

Vietnam veterans whose lives were cut short as a result of their service in Vietnam, but are not eligible for inscription on The Vietnam Veterans Memorial under Department of Defense guidelines can still be recognized and honored.


Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund’s (VVMF) In Memory program honors Vietnam veterans whose lives were cut short as a result of their service in Vietnam, but are not eligible for inscription on The Vietnam Veterans Memorial under Department of Defense guidelines. In Memory is a way that Vietnam veterans can be honored on the National Mall.

In Memory began in 1999 and has since honored more than 3,200 veterans.


Examples of causes of death that do fit the criteria for inclusion in VVMF's In Memory program:

  • PTSD related illnesses / events
  • Exposure to Agent Orange and similar chemicals
  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • Cholangiocarcinoma
  • Hodgkin's Disease
  • Ischemic Heart Disease
  • Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
  • Parkinson's Disease

Along with the application there are two documents required in the application process.  A copy of the death certificate and a copy of the DD214.

Examples of proof of service in Vietnam are listed on the DD214 as:

  • Vietnam Service Medal (VSM)
  • Vietnam Campaign Medal (VCM)
  • Vietnam Service Ribbon

To have a loved one considered for the In Memory program in 2018, you must submit your application to VVMF by March 9, 2018.  Submit application online or download form HERE.