By Sara Beth Williams–
Plans are moving forward on the long-anticipated Vietnam Veterans Memorial replica wall in Citrus Heights, with two major fundraising events slated for October and November to help bring the project closer to reality.
According to Rotary Club of Citrus Heights President Diane Ebbitt-Riehle, nearly $197,000 has been raised toward the project goal. In addition to cash donations, the effort has received significant in-kind contributions, including donated architectural plans and discounted materials. The black Indian marble that will be used for the wall is being provided at cost, with shipping covered and extra tiles included in case of damage or engraving errors, Ebbitt-Riehle said.
“This is very exciting,” said Ebbitt-Riehle, noting the strong community support. “We do have a lot of people that want to help with this project.”
Unlike other scaled-down versions of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Citrus Heights replica wall is now planned to be a 95-percent scale version, nearly identical in size to the original in Washington, D.C. Ebbitt-Riehle said such a faithful reproduction has never been attempted before, with the Missouri replica standing at about 80 percent scale. Original plans for the Citrus Heights memorial wall were to build one at 80 to 85 percent, modeled after the current replica built in Missouri.
The committee overseeing the project includes veterans, community leaders, and business representatives. Scott Miller of Catholic Funeral & Cemetery Services, who co-chairs the project with Ray Riehle, is helping oversee construction and land donations for the site. The group continues to meet monthly to coordinate permits, environmental reviews, and architectural steps, while keeping fundraising at the forefront.
Related: Plans moving forward for $3M replica Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Citrus Heights
The Citrus Heights Vietnam Veterans Memorial nonprofit has two major fundraisers planned, including an upcoming car show to be held at Sunrise Community Church in Fair Oaks.
The car show is scheduled for Oct. 11 beginning at 8 a.m.. and was organized by Johnna and Rick Pierce, longtime supporters who have already raised nearly $10,000, Ebbitt-Riehle said.
The event will feature classic cars, food trucks, and a Rotary-hosted breakfast fundraiser. The Pierces have promoted the event as far as Redding to attract participants and spectators. Veterans will be assisting at the show, Casa Roble High School will provide an honor guard, and the national anthem will be performed by a singer with competition show experience. Attendees will also be able to learn more about the memorial project and contribute directly through donations.
All cars, trucks and motorcycles are welcome, and there is no preregistration required. Those who want their car to participate only need to pay $20 on the day of the event.
Ebbitt-Riehle stressed that while the wall is the primary focus now, the site is envisioned as a broader veterans’ memorial area.
“After the wall is done, we are still going to continue raising money to have other veterans memorials put on that property,” she said.
The Citrus Heights Vietnam Veterans Memorial Project’s website describes their mission as “to honor and remember the courageous men and women who have served our nation.” Those interested in donating or finding out more information can visit the project’s website.
With momentum building and community support growing, organizers remain optimistic that the wall will soon stand in Citrus Heights as a lasting tribute to those who served.
Sunrise Community Church is located at 8231 Greenback Ln. in Fair Oaks, just outside of Citrus Heights.
