ROME, NY - The Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Griffiss Park continues to take shape thanks to local donations, and a rather large one came in on Thursday.

Walmart donated $1,000 to the fund that supports the local memorial. The money will be used for future improvements, care and upkeep of the memorial.

Organizers built several dedications to signify how many veterans were killed, wounded, and held as prisoners of war. There is one primary stone in the center of the memorial to honor all Vietnam veterans, living and deceased.

“People need to never forget the sacrifices of how they get their freedom today. It's all due to people who go to war and pay the ultimate sacrifice,” said Rick Falcone, president of the New York State Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund.

Some of the funding will go toward the improvement of the landscaping, and a piece of concrete will be replaced with granite.

The committee is also starting a second phase of the memorial. If you’re interested in making a donation, you can mail it to:

NYS Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund
210 Elm Street
Rome, NY 13440