Urgent: OC Supervisor Calls for Demolition of Vietnam Memorial

UPDATE: The future of the unfinished Vietnam War memorial in Mile Square Park is in jeopardy as Orange County Supervisor Janet Nguyen pushes for its demolition following three years and $1 million in unfulfilled promises. The memorial, located in Fountain Valley, has remained incomplete and dilapidated, prompting urgent calls for action.

At a press conference on November 10, 2025, Nguyen expressed her disappointment, stating, “It’s shameful, it’s a disgrace. This is not how we honor our veterans at all.” The memorial has structural cracks and unfinished engravings, raising significant concerns about its integrity and the honoring of veterans.

Nguyen’s proposal comes after a tumultuous history surrounding the memorial’s funding. Former Supervisor Andrew Do allocated $1 million in discretionary funds for the project, which was contracted out to Viet America Society. Do has since pleaded guilty to bribery charges, with ongoing investigations revealing that funds intended for community services were misappropriated.

With repairs estimated between $168,000 and $420,000, and the completion of unfinished engravings costing an additional $30,000 to $40,000, Nguyen argues that demolition is the most cost-effective solution, with costs ranging from $25,000 to $30,000. “There’s not a lot of documents on this site. We don’t know what was spent, we don’t know what materials were used,” she said.

Vietnam veterans and supporters are backing Nguyen’s recommendation. Nick Berardino, president of the Veterans Alliance for Orange County (VALOR), stated, “I agree that the wall should be torn down because it’s enveloped in controversy and corruption.” He emphasized that the memorial should not tarnish the legacy of those who served.

As the county considers its options, Nguyen suggests that a new project could emerge, potentially aligning with a planned veterans cemetery in Gypsum Canyon. “We gotta do it right, because we owe it to these veterans,” she affirmed, indicating a commitment to honoring their sacrifices properly.

Residents and veterans alike are urged to stay tuned for updates on this developing story as decisions regarding the memorial’s future are imminent.