The David Westphall Veterans Foundation
The David Westphall Veterans Foundation was established in 1988 with the purpose of honoring America’s veterans and members of its military forces by memorializing the sacrifices they have made and by recognizing the sense of duty and the courage they have displayed as they answered their country’s call to arms.
The Foundation realizes its purpose primarily by supporting the mission of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park. Operation of the Park helps fulfill the Foundation’s purpose by providing a memorial to veterans and a Visitors Center that serve as a place for reunion, reflection, and healing.
Read the Foundation’s full Mission Statement.
The Foundation’s responsibilities include the collecting , preparing and presenting of the photos and bios of the Vietnam dead on display in the chapel and Visitor’s Center; administering the Brick Walkway program; operating the Gift Shop; preparing the monthly news letter, and generally being available to welcome and assist visitors.
In addition to these ongoing projects, the Foundation is now raising funds to organize the archives, publish Dr. Victor Westphall’s biography, and raise funds for Arrowhead Films' The Spirit of Angel Fire .
A portion of all funds collected by the Foundation go directly to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park. The VVMSP is the only NM state park to charge no entrance fee. The park is free to all, and the Chapel itself never closes.
The Board of Directors
Chuck Hasford, former President of the David Westphall Veteran's Foundation Board of Directors is presented with an award to commemerate his time on the Board of Directors from 1999 to 2008. Current Board President, Chuck Howe, does the honors on Veteran's Day 2008. Pam Hasford, wife of Chuck Hasford, was also recognized for her support.
- Chuck Howe, President and Treasurer
- Dan Rakes, Vice President and Counsel
- Hoot Gibson, Secretary
- Jim Thorne
- Ward Nickisch
- Jim Goss
- Jack Swickard
- Lanny Tonning
- Ron Milam
- Monte Apodaca