Jan Scruggs

Jan Scruggs. He is an American veteran and activist renowned for conceiving and leading the effort to build the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.. A former infantryman who served with the 199th Light Infantry Brigade in the Vietnam War, he was deeply affected by the conflict's aftermath and the poor treatment of returning soldiers. His determined advocacy, through the nonprofit Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund he founded, resulted in the 1982 dedication of the now-iconic memorial, designed by Maya Lin, which transformed the nation's commemoration of its veterans.

Early life and military service

Jan Scruggs was born in Washington, D.C. and grew up in nearby Bowie, Maryland. After graduating from Bowie High School, he enlisted in the United States Army in 1968, motivated by a sense of patriotic duty during the escalating Vietnam War. He was assigned to the 199th Light Infantry Brigade and served a tour of duty in Vietnam as an infantry rifleman, experiencing combat in the tumultuous regions around Biên Hòa and Long Binh Post. His military service ended in 1970 after he was wounded by a rocket-propelled grenade, an event that left a profound psychological impact and fueled his later activism. Upon returning to the United States, he utilized the G.I. Bill to pursue higher education, earning a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Maryland, College Park.

Creation of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The genesis for the memorial came in 1979 after Scruggs watched the film The Deer Hunter, which vividly reignited his memories of the war and the struggles of veterans. He conceived the idea of a national monument to heal the divisions caused by the conflict and to honor the sacrifices of the over 58,000 service members who died. With just $2,800 of his own money, he incorporated the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) and began a relentless public campaign, garnering crucial early support from U.S. Senator John Warner and other influential figures like Ross Perot. Despite significant political opposition and public controversy, the VVMF organized a national design competition, which was won by then-Yale University undergraduate Maya Lin. Scruggs navigated contentious hearings before the United States Commission of Fine Arts and the National Capital Planning Commission, ultimately securing approval. The stark, black granite Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall was dedicated on the National Mall in November 1982, becoming one of the most visited sites in Washington, D.C..

Later career and advocacy

Following the memorial's success, Scruggs continued to lead the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund for many years, overseeing additions like the Vietnam Women's Memorial statue and the In Memory plaque honoring veterans who died later from war-related causes. He earned a law degree from the Washington College of Law at American University and applied his expertise to broader veterans' policy issues. He has been a frequent commentator and author, co-writing the book 'To Heal a Nation' about the memorial's creation. His advocacy extended to supporting the National Museum of the United States Army and other educational initiatives aimed at promoting public understanding of military service. In later decades, he remained a board member emeritus of the VVMF and an active voice on matters concerning Vietnam War commemoration and veteran reintegration.

Personal life

Jan Scruggs is married to Becky Scruggs, who was actively involved in the memorial fundraising campaign. They have two children and have resided in Maryland for much of their lives. He has spoken openly about his own experiences with post-traumatic stress disorder, linking his personal journey to his lifelong mission of ensuring veterans receive proper recognition and support. His hobbies and community involvement have often remained private, with his public identity firmly intertwined with his monumental achievement on the National Mall.

Awards and recognition

For his pivotal role in creating a national symbol of healing, Scruggs has received numerous honors. He was awarded the President's Citizens Medal by President Ronald Reagan in 1986, one of the nation's highest civilian awards. The Vietnam Veterans of America presented him with their Commendation Medal. He has also received honorary degrees from institutions like Mount Saint Mary's University and the University of Maryland. His work is documented in the collections of the Library of Congress and has been recognized by organizations including the American Institute of Architects and the National Park Service.

Category:American military personnel of the Vietnam War Category:Activists from Washington, D.C. Category:1950 births Category:Living people