Fallen Soldier Memorial Unveiled At Vietnam Veterans Wall In Wayne

WAYNE, NJ — Dozens of local veterans and military service members gathered in Wayne recently for the unveiling of a new statue, which honors those who gave their lives in service to their country during the Vietnam War.

A Fallen Soldier Battlefield Cross, which is modeled after the tributes that troops arrange for fallen comrades on the battlefield, now stands at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Wayne Township.

Officials unveiled the Battlefield Cross during a National Vietnam War Veterans Day ceremony on Saturday, March 29. The dog tags and helmet on the statue symbolize a fallen soldier, the combat boots represent the soldier's final march, and the inverted rifle with a bayonet represents a time for prayer, the county explained.

Commissioner Deputy Director Sandi Lazzara said the Battlefield Cross "is a powerful symbol of sacrifice and valor," as she spoke of the importance of honoring the fallen.

"This memorial not only pays tribute to those who gave everything for our country but also serves as a lasting place of reflection for generations to come," she said.

Paterson veteran Tony Vancheri, who served in Vietnam, said the statue is "more than a memorial" for those who have served.

"It’s a reflection of the brothers and sisters we lost," he said. "We must continue to honor their courage and sacrifice, so their legacy lives on.”

County officials are "deeply grateful" to Catholic Charities, the Diocese of Paterson, and the New Jersey SOS Veterans Stakeholders Group for donating the statue, said Commissioner Director Pat Lepore.

“Their generosity reflects a true commitment to our veterans, ensuring that those who gave their lives in service are forever honored," Lepore said.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, at 300 Oldham Road in Wayne, was officially installed last year. It is modeled after the national memorial in Washington, D.C. and honors the more than 58,000 U.S. military personnel who lost their lives during the Vietnam War, including 85 natives of Passaic County.

Standing at 368 feet long, officials say it is the second-largest memorial wall in the nation behind the national Vietnam Veterans Memorial.