Against the backdrop of Memorial Day commemorations, the South Chicago community came together to honor twelve local heroes who sacrificed their lives in the Vietnam War. The tribute, held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, drew a congregation of about 200 individuals which included veterans and relatives of the fallen soldiers. As stated in a Chicago Tribune report, the solemn occasion also marked a push to refurbish a crucial community symbol - a mural depicting the men whose lives were lost.

The event also featured a wreath-laying and visits to the Vietnam Memorial situated just across the street from the parish. During an emotionally charged ceremony, locals expressed their determination to preserve the memory and honor their fallen brethren. "When the need was greatest, they stepped forward and did their duty to defend the freedoms that we enjoy," Reverend Steve Niskanen opened the ceremony, as noted by the Chicago Tribune.

A concerted fundraising endeavor was announced by local organizations such as the Southeast Side Vietnam Veterans and the South Deering American Legion Post 1238. Joining forces with Ald. Peter Chico, 10th Ward, the groups are targeting a sum of $100,000 for the mural's renovation, a task Chico has identified as a community priority. "We told the families we will never forget. We told the families we have their back," Chico told the Chicago Tribune.

The financial boost to restore the mural already received a significant lift, with Home Depot pledging $25,000 in supplies towards the refurbishment. The news was shared with community members who, according to a FOX 32 Chicago article, are moved by such support.