Veterans Services Set to Take Over Operations of Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park
After almost a year of discussions, the New Mexico State Parks division of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department of the State of New Mexico and the New Mexico Veterans Services Department have agreed that the daily operations of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park be turned over to the NM Department of Veterans Services.
Mission statements of both state departments helped in coming to this conclusion. This change will become effective July 1, 2017, if the New Mexico State Legislature approves a Joint Resolution that is set to be presented during the upcoming 2017 Legislative Session beginning on January 17, 2017. The property will still be owned by the State of New Mexico and the only change will be in the responsibility of the daily operations.
Change will be a smooth transition. Currently the NM State Parks division is searching for a new Park Manager that is preferred to have veteran status and would be eligible to carry forward as manager after the transition. NM Veterans Services will also be allowed input into the candidate selection for the position.
Once the transition is completed, Veterans Services officers will maintain an office on the Memorial grounds. The Memorial will maintain the full-time and seasonal staffing it has had in the past.
The David Westphall Veterans Foundation that has contributed major support in the past will continue its support and is in support of this change of operation.
Chuck Howe
Board President
David Westphall Veterans Foundation
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