They say that healing is a journey. But the Vietnam War Memorial Replica is bringing the journey of healing to veterans around the United States:
The Wall That Heals is a traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial located in Washington, D.C. It is a 375-foot long, mobile version of the original wall, made of aluminum and painted with the names of the more than 58,000 Americans who lost their lives or went missing in action during the Vietnam War.
Truck Drivers Make this Journey of Healing Possible
It’s a traveling scale-replica of the original in Washington DC. “The Wall That Heals exhibit was on the road for more than 13,000 miles and visited 26 communities from coast to coast during its 2021 season. We were escorted by more than 3,000 vehicles into those communities, and we were able to spread The Wall’s healing legacy to nearly 200,000 visitors. Guided tours of the exhibit were provided to more than 12,000 students,” according to the Wall That Heals website.
The Wall That Heals was created by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, an organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Vietnam War and honoring the sacrifices of the veterans who served. The replica wall was first displayed in 1996 and has since visited hundreds of communities across the United States, giving people the opportunity to pay their respects and honor the memories of those who served.
Visiting The Wall That Heals is a moving and emotional experience for many veterans. For some, it is a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made by their loved ones who served in the war. For others, it is an opportunity to pay their respects to the brave men and women who fought and died for their country.
The wall is accompanied by a mobile education center, which provides information about the war and the sacrifices made by those who served. The education center also features a museum-quality exhibit that tells the story of the Vietnam War, including its causes, its impact on American society, and its aftermath.
Leaving something behind
One of the most striking features of The Wall That Heals is the thousands of personal mementos and items left at the base of the wall by visitors. These items include photographs, letters, flowers, and other personal items, all left in memory of the fallen and missing soldiers. These mementos serve as a testament to the enduring impact of the war on American society and the deep respect and gratitude that people have for those who served.
“I went to The Wall. I saw those names I did not want to see. My legs buckled under me. I could not stop the tears. Seeing those names made me realize I did not believe they were lost in Nam, even though I was there to witness it, until I saw their names inscribed on The Wall. That experience I will never forget. I thank my friend for making me go. So long ago so fresh in my mind that place called Vietnam. Rest easy my brothers, rest easy, Mark S., Massachusetts”
If you are a truck driver that wants to haul the wall, or if you want to get more involved with their mission please visit:
