Bend Veterans Memorial receives special plaque, list in wake of flagpole vandalism, community restoration effort

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Weeks after a vandalized and toppled flagpole at Bend's Vietnam Veterans Memorial was replaced and rededicated in taller, stronger fashion at Deschutes Memorial Chapel and Gardens, a new plaque is being installed that also offers help to those veterans in need.

Project organizer Bill Gabriel told NewsChannel 21 this week the plaque has a special message for visiting veterans: "Welcome home and thank you for our freedom. You are not alone." It goes on to list how to reach help in times of crisis.

Gabriel said it will be accompanied by a list of everyone who contributed and worked on the project.

Back in November, the Bend Vietnam Veterans Memorial was rededicated after being vandalized for the second time this year, toppled and the flags torn down.

Inspired to positive action, numerous people, groups and businesses came together to replace and rededicate the flagpole, taller and stronger than ever. It was rededicated during a Veterans Day ceremony.

Kelsey McGee is speaking Wednesday with seven veterans to learn about the latest improvements and additions to the memorial. Her report will be on NewsChannel 21 at Five.