WORCESTER – Thursday, October 31st, 2024 – A dedication ceremony was held on Thursday, October 31st, at Green Hill Park to unveil the new Vietnam Interactive Memorial, which was constructed through a collaboration between Worcester Technical High School students and Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans.
Worcester Tech students helped design, build, and produce an interactive exhibit at Green Hill Park, featuring stories from ten local Vietnam War Veterans. The exhibit honors the service of Vietnam veterans through interactive visual elements and personal stories, offering visitors deeper insight into the war and recognizing the over 2.7 million who served from 1961 to 1975.
"This project, I believe, will serve many generations to come and become a cornerstone of our community," said Maryjane Bitar, a Painting and Design student from Worcester Tech who oversaw the memorial project.
Students from Worcester Tech contributed impressive mini-projects to this exhibit. Each career and technical education program played a unique role. Painting & Design students engraved and stained the QR code stands, Welding students crafted the stands themselves, and Finance & Marketing students created the QR codes and developed the website they link to. Meanwhile, Computer-Aided Drafting students prepared the blueprints, Carpentry students built the new informational board, and Graphic Communications students designed and printed the graphics featured on the board.
The dedication ceremony celebrated not only the stories and sacrifices of local Vietnam veterans but also the remarkable talent and commitment of Worcester Tech students who brought this project to life. Through teamwork, creativity, and skill, these students have created an enduring tribute that will educate, inspire, and honor veterans for generations. This interactive memorial now stands as a powerful reminder of community collaboration and the lasting impact of those who served.
(Story by Rachelgrace Cobbina, Worcester Technical High School Senior)