Mecklenburg Vietnam Veterans Memorial Committee

Since its inception a committee of community volunteers has guided the fundraising, development, construction, dedication and ongoing care of the Mecklenburg memorial.  Today the group includes original committee members as well as new representatives.  The committee is composed of retired military, Vietnam veterans, family representatives and working professionals. The group meets quarterly or as needed to discuss care and maintenance needs, develop educational programs, support local veterans’ activities, and, handle special requests. The committee also advises the Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation Department, which maintains the site.

Current committee members include:

• James J. Cardo, Jr. is a Vietnam veteran and retired colonel in the Army Reserves.  He is a
  professional lighting consultant.
• Mary Gribble Eshet (chairman) is a family member of one of the Mecklenburg County soldiers who died in Vietnam.  She is a public relations professional in financial services.
• William H. Guerrant is an Army Vietnam veteran and retired public service and information director for local government.
• Stuart L. Malter is an Army Vietnam veteran and a retired consultant.
• Osborne C. Oakley, Jr. is an Army veteran.  He is a retired printer and the executive director of the Carolinas Freedom Foundation.
• Tom Smart is an Army Vietnam veteran and works in the rental equipment industry.
• Tom Swanson (1943-2018) was a Marine Vietnam veteran and a professional public relations consultant.