Harrison to Unveil Vietnam Veterans Monument Sat. April 26, 2025

In a continuing tribute to its proud military heritage, Harrison’s Post No. 282 American Legion and Sgt. William Sawelson VFW Post 340 will conduct a special ceremony to unveil a new monument honoring the town’s Vietnam War veterans. The ceremony will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Plaza located within Franklin D. Roosevelt Park — also known locally as Library Park — the Plaza main entrance is on the South Frank E. Rodgers Boulevard.

The Harrison Veterans Plaza serves as a solemn sanctuary of remembrance for those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. The plaza features monuments commemorating Harrison’s heroes from World War I, World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Korean War. The addition of the new Vietnam Veterans Monument reaffirms the Harrison Post No. 282 American Legion and the Sgt. William Sawelson VFW Post 340’s enduring commitment to remembering those who fought to preserve American liberties.

This year’s focus is especially meaningful, as Harrison pays homage to its own Vietnam War heroes — Joseph P. Mobus, Donald B. Scott, and David Robertson — three young men who answered their nation’s call and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Harrison’s Vietnam Heroes

Private First Class Joseph P. Mobus served with the 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry, C Company of the 1st Cavalry Division. He was killed in action on August 19, 1969, at the age of 21 during combat in Binh Long province, South Vietnam. Mobus was a highly decorated soldier, earning honors including the Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, National Defense Service Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal, among others.

Marine Corps Lance Corporal Donald B. Scott, a machine gunner in the 1st Marine Division, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, L Company, gave his life on August 2, 1968, at just 19 years old during combat in Quang Nam province. His bravery was recognized with awards including the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal.

Army Sergeant David Robertson served with the 4th Infantry Division, 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry, C Company. He was killed in action on June 27, 1968, at the age of 23 while fighting in Thua Thien province. Sergeant Robertson’s distinguished service was honored with numerous awards, including the Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Army Presidential Unit Citation.

The inscription on the Vietnam War monument reads simply but powerfully:

In Honor of Those Who Made The Supreme Sacrifice in the Vietnam War: Joseph P. Mobus, Donald B. Scott, David Robertson.

A Legacy Carved into the Town’s History

Over a decade ago, Harrison’s late Mayor Raymond J. McDonough and the Town Council ensured that these heroes would be forever etched into the town’s fabric by renaming Hill Street as Scott Mobus Place, honoring the close childhood friendship of Mobus and Scott, who both grew up on the street. Additionally, Harrison High School features a commemorative plaque honoring Donald Scott’s athleticism and patriotism, offering future generations a reminder of the cost of freedom.

Invitation to the Public

The Harrison American Legion and VFW Post invite all residents and visitors to attend the unveiling ceremony. It is an opportunity for the community to come together, reflect, and honor the men and women who wore the nation’s uniform and upheld its values under the most challenging conditions.

As Harrison’s Veterans Plaza continues to stand as a place of quiet reflection and profound gratitude, Saturday’s ceremony ensures that the sacrifices of Mobus, Scott, Robertson, and all Vietnam Veterans will never be forgotten.

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