Letter: Community invited to honor Vietnam War fallen heroes at Fort Vancouver Ceremony

J. Ron Powers invites the public to a historic ceremony honoring Clark County’s 59 Vietnam War fallen heroes on Aug. 2 at Fort Vancouver. The tribute includes biographical readings, bell ringing, and military honors.

In a long-overdue tribute, the Vietnam War Fallen Heroes Remembrance Ceremony will take place on Sat., Aug. 2, at the historic Fort Vancouver Barracks Parade Grounds

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More than 50 years have passed since the Vietnam War came to an end, yet Clark County has never held a public ceremony to recognize all 59 local service members who lost their lives during the conflict — until now.

In a long-overdue tribute, the Vietnam War Fallen Heroes Remembrance Ceremony will take place on Sat., Aug. 2, at the historic Fort Vancouver Barracks Parade Grounds. The community is invited to attend this solemn and significant event, which will mark the first time that all 59 of Clark County’s fallen Vietnam War heroes are honored together in a single public ceremony.

Hosted by Lynn Vaughn, founder of Never To Be Forgotten Ceremonies, in collaboration with AMVETS Post 16, the ceremony is part of a broader initiative to preserve the legacy of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The event coincides with the 50th anniversary of the official end of the Vietnam War.

The remembrance will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and will include:

A biographical tribute to each of the 59 fallen service members
Individual bell ringing in their memory
Military honors and a flag presentation
Special recognition for the families of the fallen
A military jet flyover
Guest speakers, patriotic music, and moments for reflection and community unity

“It’s my firm belief that in order never to forget someone, we must never stop talking about them,” said Lynn Vaughn. “The moment we stop speaking their names, that’s when they truly fade away. By remembering these heroes and sharing their stories, we preserve their legacy for future generations.”

Event Details

Date: Saturday, August 2, 2025
Time: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Location: Fort Vancouver Barracks Parade Grounds
600 Hathaway Road, Vancouver, WA 98661

This historic ceremony invites residents of Clark County and the broader Southwest Washington region to come together in remembrance, gratitude, and solidarity. All members of the public are encouraged to attend and help ensure that the sacrifices of these 59 brave men are never forgotten.

J. Ron Powers
Vancouver