April 7, 2002

The Parks and Recreation Department, City of Albuquerque, is deeply honored to have had the opportunity to work on the Bataan Memorial project. This memorial honors the heroism of the New Mexico 200th and 515th Coast Artillery whose courage, sacrifice, and perseverance never waned throughout the horrors of World War II.

Our department worked alongside the Bataan-Corregidor Memorial Foundation of New Mexico to assure that this project was completed by April 9, 2002, the 60th anniversary of the Fall of Bataan. The New Mexico Bataan veterans have waited 60 years for this memorial to become a reality. And in spite of this, they have treated us as a valued partner, holding us in the highest regard, praising and encouraging the efforts of all those involved.

On behalf of our department, we salute all those who came together to share a clear vision and common goal.  Our congratulations to the veterans, the Foundation, the Summit Park Neighborhood Association, the State and responsive design consultant, Bill Perkins. This monument not only fulfills a promise long made, but it brings closure to a chapter in history that shaped our City’s historic landscape.

Colleen K. Frenz

Park and Trail Systems Manager

Parks and Recreation Department