The Friends of the Vietnam Veterans Plaza is New York City’s official Vietnam Veterans Memorial at 55 Water Street.
The Friends of the Vietnam Veterans Plaza was established in 1999 to redesign, fund, and rebuild the 90,000 square foot plaza located at 55 Water Street. This Plaza is New York City’s official Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Built in 1985, the City’s first bonus plaza was chosen because it provided a unique, spacious and respectful area in the midst of a supportive corporate neighborhood. In 1999, it was apparent that the Plaza was underutilized and in need of serious repairs in order to respectfully honor the men and women who served in Vietnam.
Our mission as “Friends” of the Vietnam Veterans Plaza was to refurbish the Memorial Plaza in order to ensure its preservation into the future and to provide an appropriate setting which would serve the needs of the community. In November of 2001, the Friends of the Vietnam Veterans Plaza completed the renovation phase by raising $7.1 million from both the public and private sectors. The Plaza at 55 Water Street Was the first public space dedicated and reopened after the attacks on New York City on September 11th, 2001. Restored, the Plaza has enjoyed greater public interest and has become a respected venue for numerous veterans’ events. The Plaza is a place for peaceful respect, remembrance and tribute for those who served in Vietnam and to solemnly honor those 1,744 NYC residents who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the Vietnam War. Our responsibility continues as we maintain the memorial plaza from the effects of age and weather and remain committed to the beautification of the Plaza. We greatly appreciate your support of our organization and commend your activism in honoring the military service of the Vietnam Veterans.