Residents Support Vietnam War Memorial at Doo Wop Concert

Vietnam War veteran and Scotch Plains Construction Code Official Bob LaCosta, along with the help of other local veterans, is spearheading efforts behind the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial.

Vinny Losavio, LaCosta and Mayor Kevin Glover walked around the crowd on Thursday night asking for donations towards the memorial designed by Ralph Checchio. The building of the memorial will start following Labor Day, LaCosta said.

The turnout was great, LaCosta expressed, thanking Mother Nature for cooperating after a rainy day. When discussing about raising the roughly $20,000 it will cost to create the monument, LaCosta said, “we’ll make our mark.”

"I think it will be a very nice tribute to the veterans who served in Vietnam, which was obviously not a very popular war," LaCosta told Patch prior to the event. "When they came home, it wasn't the kind of homecoming that a lot of veterans received from other wars. It’s really about time."

A performance by the Jersey Jukebox was the main entertainment sponsored by Vinny and Nick Losavio of John’s Meat Market. Also offered at the event were treats from Mara’s Café and Bakery, burgers, drinks, face painting and more.

The Jersey Jukebox, who’s one member is a Vietnam veteran himself, welcomed home the vets during the concert and thanked all veterans who have served for the U.S. overseas.

“It’s a great night,” Mayor Glover said. “It’s one of our best turnouts for the concerts.”

In addition to the donations collected at the concert, a letter seeking donations for the memorial was mailed to residents. Any donations can be made out to the VFW Post 10122, C/O Bob LaCosta. All donations are tax deductible.