VVMF has received the very sad news that Diane Carlson Evans has passed away. Diane was a U.S. Army nurse, a Vietnam veteran, and Founder of the Vietnam Women’s Memorial.
Diane's every thought was about remembering and honoring the service of ALL our Vietnam veterans. While she wanted to make sure the service and stories of those who happened to be women would be included, in a recent conversation, we shared the conviction that they are Vietnam veterans first and women second. At 'The Wall,' the place set aside by our country for Vietnam veterans, going forward, may we honor all Vietnam veterans -- regardless of rank, branch of service, job responsibilities, race, religion or even gender.
Her courage, dedication and resolve to honor her fellow Vietnam veterans was unmatched. We will miss her presence at every ceremony, but now her spirit will always be there on that hallowed ground.
Godspeed, Diane, and Welcome Home.