New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial Foundation Honors Volunteers

Michelle Knell of Holmdel is one of 50 volunteers giving time each week at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Foundation, where she works as a receptionist on Friday mornings.

"I was reflecting back to when I  lost a cousin and a neighbor in Vietnam. I had some spare time, and decided to see if I could help," Knell said.

The volunteers were honored on March 27 for their service with a catered  luncheon and gift card raffles. The Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center is located adjacent to the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial off the Garden State Parkway at exit 116. 

"The volunteers are the center," said Katie Henry, Coordinator of Education Initiative and Resources. "The Vietnam veterans give the tours. Volunteers run the front desk and the gift shop," said Henry.

Over 11,000 people pass through the museum portion of the facility per year, said Henry. The museum, which boasts a 5,000-square foot exhibition space, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m  to 4:00 p.m.

The center costs $5 per adult, $3 for students and seniors, and free to all military and veterans. Vietnam vets serve as guides for free tours on Saturdays at 11:00 and 1:00.

Volunteers are welcome. Contact Ken Gurbisz at  kgurbisz@njvvmf.org.