Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Plaza

Location and Establishment

Located between Esther Short Park and the Waterfront in downtown Vancouver, Washington, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Plaza honors those who've served our nation.

This thoughtful space came to life in 2013 and remains under the careful stewardship of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7824 - dedicated folks ensuring this place of honor stays beautiful for years to come.

The Remembrance Wall

Walk along the plaza and you'll find yourself face-to-face with the Remembrance Wall, arguably the heart of this memorial space. The wall features striking murals created by the talented artists of the Clark County Mural Society.

These aren't just any murals - they form what's considered the longest mural in Washington state, adding both visual beauty and historical depth to your visit.

Look closer and you'll see names of military heroes meticulously recorded with their branch of service, years served, and the conflicts they participated in. Among the moving inscriptions that might catch your eye are "Never forget freedom isn't free" and "Land of the free because of the brave" - simple words carrying profound weight.

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Purpose and Significance

The plaza provides a quiet place to pause and reflect amidst the bustle of downtown Vancouver. Various monuments throughout the space honor those who served their country.

What makes this place special is how it honors both veterans still with us today and those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It represents a tangible reminder of what freedom truly costs.

You'll appreciate how easy it is to find, too - its central location makes it perfectly accessible whether you're a local or just passing through.

Dedication

Back in September 2013, the City of Vancouver partnered with the Veterans of Foreign Wars for the plaza's dedication. This collaboration highlighted the dual purpose of the space: a meaningful memorial and a thoughtful contribution to Vancouver's urban landscape.