About us
We are dedicated to preserving the integrity of tributes honoring our nation's heroes. Our team ensures the memorial remains a lasting testament to sacrifice and service of those who have served.
Honoring Heroes with Care
The Vietnam Era Memorial was built to honor those who served during the Vietnam Era. It is a quiet place for reflection, to show appreciation for the service and sacrifices of our veterans, and to continue healing the wounds the war inflicted.
The memorial was constructed on a quarter acre of land at the south end of Canby on Highway 99E. Ground breaking began April 2006 at a cost of approximately $450,000 - an amount raised by private donations. Land for the memorial was donated by Holland Inc., owner of the Burgerville chain of restaurants.
The inspiration for the memorial came from Canby veterans and their families. These men, women, and children volunteered their time to raise the funds, oversee construction and maintain the memorial.
Blue Star Memorial Marker
The site has been designated as a Blue Star Memorial Marker. These markers were first erected in 1944 by the National Council of State Garden CLubs to honor those who served in the armed forces. Numerous markers now stand along roadsides across the United States. The Canby site was sponsored by the Oregon State Federation of Garden Clubs and the Oregon State Highway Commission.
UH-1D/H Medivac Ship (Huey)
The memorial depicts the drama of a Huey helicopter flying over rice paddies to pick up a wounded soldier carried by his buddy. A young Vietnamese girl clings to the wounded soldier's hand. These figures are portrayed in a life-size bronze statue titled "A Hero's Prayer." The wounded soldier represents Army SPC-4 Warren E. Newton who is missing in action in Viewtnam. The solider carrying SPC-4 Newton represents Marine PFC Gary W. Martini, a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient from Oregon. Serving as a landing pad for the helicopter, is a brick plaza with a Red Cross symbol. The plaza is shaped as a large "Shou," an Asian symbol for long life. A temple bell inscribed with the Vietnamese word for "peace" is located nearby. The helicopter is supported 20 feet off the ground and represents a landing to aid the soldiers.
Testimonials
"For me, the Vietnam Era Memorial in Canby symbolizes the memnory, and tribute we pay to all of our American veterans - past and present." - Mayor Melody Thompson
"The sacrifices that our servicemen and women have made and continue to make in pursuit of our freedoms are not forgotten and we honor their memory." - Councilman Randy Carson
"She was the life and breath of the Vietnam War for many soldiers. The Huey was our friend; thepilots and crews were our heros. Thousands of lives were literally saved because of the dependability of the Huey and the bravery of her crews. Her familiar signature sound will echo forever in the hearts and souls of the many veterans that she so faithfully served." - Jerry L. Pero, President, Vietnam Veterans of Oregon Memorial Fund
Honoring Heroes with Care
Join us in preserving the dignity of the Vietnam Era Veterans Memorial in Canby. Your support helps maintain this sacred site for future generations.