RUMFORD – Supporters have raised $5,000 toward the $11,500 needed to purchase a monument to honor veterans from Oxford County who were killed during the Vietnam War.

“This will be the first monument dedicated to soldiers from Maine killed in Vietnam,” said organizer Scott May of Mexico, a veteran and a member of the United Bikers of Maine.

The $5,000 came through contributions from businesses, organizations and individuals. The rest must be raised by May 19, the day the monument will be dedicated at Veterans Park in Rumford.

About 36 veterans’ names have been identified, so far, and will be engraved on the granite monument.

May said about 700 bikers from the motorcycle group will hold a roar-in just prior to the dedication. Speakers will include Gov. John Baldacci, U.S. Rep. Michael Michaud, D-Maine.

Oxford County Sheriff Wayne Gallant, also a Vietnam War veteran, Maj. Gen. Bill Libby who is commanding officer of the Maine Army Reserve and National Guard and a Vietnam vet, and local state legislators are also expected to attend.

Bands include the Marine Corps Band and the Army National Guard Band from Augusta.

A parade of Humvees and military trucks will roll down Congress Street pulling a variety of artillery from their starting point at Hosmer Field at noon. The street will be closed so that the 700 motorcycles can line both sides of the street when the military artillery comes down. May is working on securing three flyovers during the ceremony.

Band members from Dirigo High School and Dirigo Middle School will also play and specially honor Pfc. Bruce H. Tibbetts of Dixfield, who was killed in action in June 1969 in South Vietnam.