The Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial is one of the largest memorials in the nation outside of Washington, D.C. The memorial features many high-end architectural elements carefully selected to highlight the historical significance of this landmark. Such elements include black granite stone engraved with the names of more than 2,900 Illinois servicemen, a waterfall featuring a sculpture of the Vietnam service medal given to all Vietnam War Veterans, a fountain with 14 water jets, a plaque wall and engraved granite pavers from the city’s original memorial.

The majority of work on this project was self-performed by Rausch’s force using our own fleet of equipment. Self-performed work included demolition, earthwork, new retaining walls, the fountain, and the fountain’s mechanical room. Rausch also completed grading and concrete work including new concrete retaining walls with limestone cladding, stairs, and ADA ramps.

The memorial was dedicated by Mayor Richard M. Daley on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2005.