Vietnam memorial nears finish

3/21/2002

Toledo honored its Vietnam veterans two years ago at Civic Center Mall with Vietnam Peace Arch Memorial, a towering stone sculpture by Blissfield artist Kenneth Thompson.

Local veterans and public art advocates say it's time to finish the job.

The memorial was designed as a plaza with a sculpture standing in a circle of stone pavement flanked by low benches. The Arts Commission of Greater Toledo Art in Public Places committee, the group that commissioned the piece, needs to raise $35,000 to cover costs of site preparation, paving stones, and installation of the Phase II plaza.

Committee member Margy Trumbull enlisted local Vietnam veterans for help, and a joint campaign will start rolling after a Wednesday news conference.

Custom-engraved bricks can be commissioned for $50 apiece; 24-inch-square slate pavers are available for a $250 donation. Benches are $1,500.