Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, renowned for its scenic beaches and vibrant tourism, is set to unveil a poignant addition to its attractions. A Vietnam War memorial is underway, promising a long-awaited tribute to veterans who never received a proper homecoming.
Recently, a groundbreaking ceremony attracted over 500 residents eager to witness the commencement of this significant project. The memorial is being constructed at The Market Common’s Warbird Park and will feature an entrance inscribed with the words “Welcome Home,” a comforting message that many Vietnam veterans were denied upon their return over fifty years ago.
Construction plans include an 8-foot multi-sided wall, a reflecting pool, and a garden, with the aim of completing the project by Memorial Day weekend, as reported by The Post & Courier.
Long Overdue Welcome Home
Retired Air Force Col. Thomas “Buddy” Styers, a key figure in the project, addressed the attendees with a heartfelt “Welcome home, brothers, welcome home!” His words served as a reminder of the hardships endured by veterans. Styers, who experienced hostility upon his return to the U.S. in 1970, emphasized the importance of this memorial for healing and recognition.
Reflecting on his own return through the San Francisco airport, Styers recounted, “It was winter and I was in short sleeves… There were protestors waiting for people in uniform. They were calling us names and worse.”
Project Came Together Quickly
Styers, who retired from the Air Force in 1992, has been instrumental in transforming the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base into The Market Common, a thriving community space. Warbird Park, located at the heart of this development, already honors World War II veterans, and the Vietnam memorial will fill a notable gap in the park’s historical narrative.
The project has progressed swiftly, thanks to a $600,000 donation from the city’s redevelopment group and contributions from local donors. Input from area veterans’ groups was crucial in advancing the plans, turning the concept into reality within a year, as noted by city spokesperson Meredith Denari.
Memorial Features
Myrtle Beach city council member Mike Lowder expressed profound gratitude to the veterans present, saying, “This is a small way for the city of Myrtle Beach to say, ‘Welcome home.'” Architect Jessica Wise elaborated on the memorial’s purpose, stating, “We wanted the memorial to be a place of visibility, remembrance, reflection, gratitude, storytelling and education.”
The memorial will be illuminated at night, featuring images, engravings, and statues, alongside quotes from presidents Jimmy Carter and Franklin Roosevelt. Stone benches will provide visitors a place for contemplation, ensuring the memorial serves as a focal point for remembrance and community connection.
