Larry L. Maxam Memorial Park

Tucked away in Burbank, California, Larry L. Maxam Memorial Park isn’t just a place for recreation. It’s a tribute to a local hero. Larry L. Maxam Memorial Park houses four dedicated pickleball courts, free for anyone to use. But the name “Maxam” echoes with a story of courage that reaches far beyond these courts, all the way to the battlefields of Vietnam. Larry Leonard Maxam, a Burbank native, served as a Corporal in the Marines during the Vietnam War. On a fateful day in February 1968, the Cam Lo District Headquarters in Quang Tri Province came under heavy attack. Maxam, despite being wounded, took control of an abandoned machine gun, holding off the enemy advance. He continued to fight even after being further wounded, switching to his rifle when he became too weak to reload the machine gun. Maxam single-handedly defended almost half of the perimeter before finally succumbing to his wounds. His bravery earned him the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration awarded by the United States. Back at Larry L. Maxam Memorial Park, the sound of pickleball paddles echoes his unwavering spirit. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of ordinary life, extraordinary acts of courage deserve to be remembered. So, the next time you’re enjoying a game at Larry L. Maxam Memorial Park, take a moment to reflect on the man who gave his life for his country. His memory lives on, not just in the name of the park, but in the hearts of those who know his story.