SIOUXLAND FREEDOM PARK
Written by Tim Trudell
Honoring the men and women who gave their lives in the name of freedom, Siouxland Freedom Park is home to the nation’s largest Vietnam Wall memorial outside Washington, DC. The half-sized replica of the Wall, as it’s simply known as by Vietnam War veterans, anchors the South Sioux City park.
Dedicated in 2014, the monument was the idea of Mike Newhouse and others, who, about 20 years ago, visited a traveling exhibit honoring Vietnam War veterans and believed Siouxland needed its own memorial to veterans of all wars.
Siouxland Freedom Park grew from a former dump area to cover 55 acres, with banners representing each military branch adorned on street poles leading the way to the memorial.
The Vietnam Wall memorial contains the names of more than 58,000 men and women – along with about 130 from Siouxland – who died during the conflict, which lasted from 1959-1975. With about 8.7 million Vietnam veterans across the United States, Nebraska is home to about 39,000, while Iowa has about 65,000. More than 20,000 Vietnam veterans reside in South Dakota.
When visiting the Vietnam War memorial, it’s common to see personal items left behind as tributes to fallen comrades, including hats and flowers. A directory easily identifies the location of each military member’s name on the wall. The memorial serves as a source of healing for Vietnam veterans and family members.
While the Vietnam Veterans Memorial provides an anchor, Siouxland Freedom Park honors veterans from other American wars.
A Korean War memorial was dedicated in 2023. Featuring stainless steel 2D figures, the Siouxland memorial depicts soldiers trudging through the Korean countryside. The South Sioux City attraction mirrors the 3D memorial in Washington, DC. The Korean War memorial provides a haunting view when illuminated at night.
Referred to as “The Forgotten War,” there are about 1 million Korean War veterans in the United States, with Siouxland home to about 1,000 of them.
Siouxland Freedom Park also features the first Freedom Rock outside of Iowa. With paintings honoring local military heroes, the Freedom Rock series was designed by Ray “Bubba” Sorensen II. Each of Iowa’s 99 counties features his work.
Recognizing the sacrifices made by service members and their families for their country, personal stories, displays, exhibits, and memorabilia highlight a visit to the Brigadier General Bud and Doris Day Interpretive Center. From enlistment and basic training to tales of life in uniform, Siouxland veterans share their stories of military service and how the military influenced their lives. Facing challenges as they returned to civilian life, each veteran discusses the impact of military duty.
Memorabilia on display include items such as an artillery shell and helmet from World War I, as well as combat boots and calvary hat from Vietnam. Sculptures honor fallen soldiers, as well as military members still listed as Prisoners of War or Missing in Action.
The Brigadier General Bud and Doris Day Interpretive Center features 13 military uniforms donated by veterans or their families. They offer a look at each person’s military service.
Brigadier General George E. “Bud” Day – a Medal of Honor recipient – is recognized for his service, honor and dedication to his country. He also received the Air Force Cross. A colonel at the time of his active duty service, General Day was promoted to Brigadier General posthumously in 2018. He served in the United States Air Force from 1967 until 1973.
Siouxland Freedom Park named its dog park in honor of Petty Officer 1st Class John Duoangdara, a Navy SEAL, who, along with 29 fellow servicemembers, died after his helicopter was shot down in 2011 during the war in Afghanistan. John Duoangdara Dog Park honors the sailor, who served as a dog handler. Bart, his military dog, was among the chopper’s casualties.
Siouxland Freedom Park has grown from the dream of a few people to honoring thousands of men and women by sharing their lives and stories through memorials, exhibits and displays. The park is open 24 hours a day.
Photo credit Tim Trudell
