The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall Washington, D.C. -- 1959... In honor of the men and women of the armed forces of the United States who served in the Vietnam War. The names of those who gave their lives and of those who remain missing are inscribed in the order they were taken from us. Our nation honors the courage, sacrifice and devotion to duty and country of its Vietnam Veterans. This memorial was built with private contributions from the American people. ...1975 Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall Experience March 29, 2008 marks the thirty-fifth anniversary of the withdrawal of the last American combat troops from Vietnam. During a period that spans almost two-decades, over 10 million Americans served on active duty, with 3 1/2 million serving in Southeast Asia. 304,000 were wounded, 80,000 are still severely disabled. As of May 5, 2007, when another name was added, 58,256 men and women who were killed or remain missing have had their name carved in The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. This National Park Service site is their most-visited in D.C. The monument commemorates U.S. dead and missing-in-action who served in the Vietnam War, and has long been noted for its tremendous emotional impact. Although the war exacted a significant toll both home and overseas, many of our community who might want to, may not be able to visit our nation's capital to experience "The Wall," a powerful reminder of the price of freedom that we enjoy. The memorial inspires our respect for those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our right to liberty and democracy. Now, for two days, beginning on June 7, 2008, the "Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall Experience," a traveling, three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, will be at the Hicksville Sears during this June weekend. This faux-granite replica is 240 feet long, inscribed with the names of the Americans who died or are missing in Vietnam, allows for rubbings, and is eight feet high. This will be an opportunity for residents who have been unable to travel to partake in the experience. It will be a valuable learning venue for our children who know little about the Vietnam War. The Wall will be open around the clock until 6:00 p.m. June 8th. Admission is free. I hope you will join me there. --- Regards, Walt Schmidt