Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park

🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 New-mexico — The first state-funded Vietnam Veterans memorial in the nation — dedicated in 1971 at Angel Fire, NM while the war was still raging. David Westphall built the memorial for his son Victor, a Marine killed in an ambush on May 22, 1968. The white chapel sits at 8,000 feet with panoramic Sangre de Cristo mountain views.

Visitor Information

About Vietnam Memorial

Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park near Angel Fire preserves a chapel and memorial built by Dr. Victor Westphall in honor of his son David, killed in Vietnam in 1968. It was the first memorial in the nation dedicated specifically to Vietnam veterans — predating the Washington DC memorial by 13 years. The chapel’s soaring white wings against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains create one of the most emotionally powerful memorial settings in America.

Things to Do

Visiting the memorial chapel, reflecting at the Wall of Honor, attending memorial services, viewing the visitor center exhibits, and experiencing America’s first Vietnam Veterans memorial.

Nature & Wildlife

The memorial sits at 8,400 feet elevation in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains — one of the highest state parks in America. The surrounding Moreno Valley supports elk herds that graze the alpine meadows. Mule deer, black bears, and mountain lions inhabit the spruce-fir forests. The valley’s cold, dry climate preserves the memorial’s white surface in stunning contrast to the dark green forest and blue mountain sky. Angel Fire Resort (adjacent) offers skiing in winter.

Insider Tips

Mountain memorial: Perched at 6,500 feet near Angel Fire in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this was the first state park in the US dedicated to Vietnam veterans (1968). Pro tip: The memorial was built by Victor “Doc” Westphall after his son David was killed in Vietnam — a father’s personal tribute that became a national shrine. Chapel: The striking white chapel rises from the mountainside — its curved walls and mountain backdrop create a deeply moving setting.

Best Time to Visit

Memorial Day (May): Major commemoration ceremonies. Veterans Day (November): Special observances. Summer: Mountain temperatures are pleasant. Fall: Aspen foliage in the Sangre de Cristos is spectacular.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this older than the DC Vietnam Memorial?

Yes — the Angel Fire memorial was dedicated in 1971, eleven years before the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington DC (1982). Victor Westphall began construction in 1968, while the war was still being fought. It’s believed to be the first major Vietnam War memorial built in the United States.