It took over 5 decades for Atlanta’s fallen heroes of the Vietnam War to receive a permanent memorial in their hometown.
Unveiled in March 2026, the Sons of Atlanta Vietnam War Monument and Memorial Experience was established to honor approximately 240 service members who lost their lives during the war.
Impact Signs was honored to bring this long-awaited memorial to life through custom architectural signage that will preserve such a powerful legacy for generations to come.
Atlanta’s First Official Vietnam War Memorial
For years, community leaders and veterans petitioned for there to be a Vietnam Memorial in Atlanta, GA for the local service members who sacrificed their lives during the war.
In 2019, the Atlanta City Council approved of the establishment of the Sons of Atlanta Vietnam War Monument and Memorial Experience in Piedmont Park. After years of planning and execution, this memorial was opened to the public on March 29th, 2026.
The completed memorial features a large tribute sculpture situated on a plaza with commemorative plaques positioned at 4 points of the plaza.
The pillars of the sculpture reach towards the sky, symbolizing an uplifting of recognition for the late service members. The phrase “freedom is not free” is incorporated into the plaza, reinforcing the significance of the space.
Creating Custom Memorial Signage for the Sons of Atlanta
Bringing such a meaningful project to life requires thoughtful craftsmanship throughout.
For the Sons of Atlanta memorial, Impact Signs crafted custom memorial signage with precision, attention to detail, and the significance of the space in mind.
Because memorial signage is intended to last, longevity was top of mind at each stage, from materials selection to installation. The finished plaques were fabricated with architectural aluminum, providing a durable foundation well-suited for outdoor installation. The design combines various elements, including:
- Brushed Raised Lettering & Stars: these details feature a brushed metal finish, creating dimension and contrast while maintaining a clean appearance.
- Recessed Duranodic Bronze Background: the stippling of the paint adds texture and contrast, allowing details to stand out.
- Concealed Mounting: blind studs and custom patterns keep hardware hidden, creating a seamless installation.
- Cast Bronze Military Seals: these seals are inlaid directly into the concrete, integrating symbols of service into the memorial. Their placement at ground level adds another meaningful military element to the overall design.
- Cut Bronze Lettering: the words “FREEDOM IS NOT FREE” are rendered in cut bronze letters and inset directly into the concrete. This approach creates a permanent statement for all visitors to encounter as they move through the space.
A Lasting Tribute in the Heart of Atlanta
After years of advocacy, the Sons of Atlanta Vietnam War Memorial stands today as a permanent place of honor and recognition.
For those who are related to the fallen or know them personally, the memorial holds an even deeper significance. At the unveiling, Raymond Tatum, a Vietnam war veteran, found the name of his childhood friend who had lost his life during the war, Allan Stegall Jr.
Stories like this are why memorials matter.
Custom Memorial Signage From Impact Signs
Memorials tell stories that should never be forgotten, and the signage in them is a key element in telling these stories.
From veteran memorials, historical markers, commemorative signage and more, Impact Signs is proud to partner with a variety of organizations across the nation, delivering custom architectural signage that is precise, durable, and thoughtfully crafted.
If you’re planning a project, contact Impact Signs to learn more about our custom signage solutions.
