California Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Sacramento’s Capitol Park (Photo: Sarbjit Bahga)
Each year, personal mementos and artifacts are left behind at the California Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Sacramento’s Capitol Park. These items serve as a tribute to the lives and sacrifices of those who served in the Vietnam War, providing a tangible connection to the past for families and visitors. FOX40 News reports the public can request to view pieces from the collection; however, some items may require special arrangements due to their size, weight, or fragility.
Since the establishment of the California Vietnam Veterans Memorial in 1988, over 1,300 items have been left behind, ranging from historical artifacts to deeply personal mementos. the California Secretary of State’s Archives Division works to preserve these items, which are collected annually by groundskeepers and transferred to the archives. Some of these pieces carry profound sentimental value and a deep emotional connection between Veterans, their families, and those who honor them.
Items left at the memorial include poems, letters, and tokens of shared experiences, such as cigarettes or beer cans, possibly symbolizing moments shared by soldiers who didn’t return home. These items often represent the diverse experiences of those who served, from small keepsakes to military-related items, offering a glimpse into the lives of California’s Vietnam Veterans.
Caren Daniels Lagomarsino, President of the Friends of California Archives, suggests that leaving items at the memorial may provide a sense of closure or healing for individuals mourning the loss of loved ones. She explained to FOX reporters that the act allows people to connect with those they have lost while honoring their memory. The memorial itself is a tribute to the over 350,000 Californians who served in the Vietnam War, with the names of more than 5,800 Californians who died or remain missing engraved on its walls.
Many of the items in the collection date back to the late 1980s and 1990s. Once received by the state archives, each item is cataloged with a ticket to document its entry date. The collection includes uniforms, letters, and other artifacts believed to have belonged to Veterans who returned from Vietnam or were left behind by those who did not. State archivists carefully assess, organize, and preserve these items, ensuring their lasting historical significance. These efforts ensure that the memories and sacrifices of the Veterans are preserved for future generations.
Those interested in viewing the items or learning more can contact the Archives Reference Desk via email at reference@sos.ca.gov or by phone at (916) 653-2246.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
