VietNam Memorial - New Mexico

On my way to Taos, New Mexico from Colorado my attention was captured by this odd white structure off in the distance. It was late afternoon and the low sun made the white structure all the more interesting. I found a turnoff that looked like it might lead me to this building. What I found was a VietNam Veterans' Memorial. I spent some time there as I was intrigued by who & why it came to be built in this isolated area, Angel Fire, north of Taos.

It began as a private memorial constructed by a couple, Dr. & Mrs. Victor Westphall who lost their son, David, killed by enemy ambush in 1968 while serving in VietNam. Inside is a chapel with stained glass window situated toward the setting sun and a couple rows of step-like "pews". Music plays softly & there is a book which honors 13 (as I recall) other veterans who died while serving in Vietnam. Each month the names & bios changes to honor another list of 13 veterans. The doors are never locked. After reading each page I went out a different door and discovered 2 graves - Victor & Jeanne Westphall.  They spent the remainder of their lives honoring their son, Lt David Westphall & his fallen brothers and were buried just to the right of the door in the photograph. 

VietNam Memorial at Angel Fire, New Mexico

 

A vet came upon the chapel late one night back when the doors were locked at dusk every day. He left a note explaining he was a homeless VietNam vet in need of shelter & asked why the doors were locked, if the chapel was to honor the veterens. The next day when his note was found, the Westphalls changed their policy & the doors have not been locked since. The chapel is open to everyone at all times.

If you have ever seen the Angel Fire Memorial, please leave a comment here; I'd like to know about your experience.