The Wall That Heals has officially touched down in Bay County, Florida, bringing with it the weight of history and remembrance for the countless service members who bravely defended their country during the Vietnam War. This traveling exhibit is not just any replica; it’s a three-quarter scale representation of the iconic Vietnam Veterans Memorial located in Washington, D.C. This remembrance tour honors the over 58,000 U.S. soldiers who paid the ultimate price for their country during the conflict.
The Wall measures 375 feet long and rises to 7.5 feet at its highest point, allowing visitors to experience it much like they would the original memorial, which serves as a powerful symbol of sacrifice and commemoration. The display is currently located at the Callaway Recreational Complex and will remain open 24 hours until November 17, 2024. This opportunity is provided free of charge, and organizers hope it will allow many to connect with both the history of the Vietnam War and the personal stories of those who served.
This year’s arrival of The Wall That Heals holds special significance, coinciding with Veterans Day. Among the key features of the exhibit is the Mobile Education Center, which provides insights and educational resources about the Vietnam War and its impacts on American society. The Wall serves as more than just stone and mortar; it is I
a living history, capturing the emotional scars left behind by the war. Many visitors share personal stories of grief and loss, having their loved ones' names etched on the wall, which acts as both a memorial and a healing space.
On November 12, 2024, the exhibit made its grand arrival with much fanfare, including motorcycle escorts through the local roads. Local veterans and community members gathered to pay tribute to those who lost their lives during the Vietnam War. The American Legion Family played a significant role during the welcoming ceremony, where wreaths were laid to honor their fellow service members.
James Kellogg, the American Legion National Vice Commander and Vietnam-era veteran, was among those participating. He highlighted the personal nature of visiting such memorials, recalling the names of fallen troops he served alongside. “It was very emotional,” Kellogg expressed after leading the ceremony. His sentiment echoes the broader connection many feel when facing The Wall, underscoring the deep ties to remembrance and the healing process for veterans and families alike.
Joining him were Lauren Lloyd, the Auxiliary Vice President, and Harl “Butch” Ray, National Vice Commander of the Sons of The American Legion. Each brought their unique stories of family service, some experiencing loss firsthand and using the exhibit as both tribute and closure. Lloyd reflected on her father's service and the emotional moments shared at the Wall, emphasizing its ability to bring together people from various backgrounds and experiences.
Robert Doubek, co-founder of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, served as the keynote speaker during this touching ceremony. He declared, “The Wall is one of the most revered and frequently visited monuments in our country.” This statement summarizes the impact The Wall That Heals has, not only during its exhibits but also as part of America’s collective consciousness surrounding military service and honor.
This year's memorial also marked significant anniversaries—the 40th of the Three Servicemen Statue and the 20th of the “in Memory” plaque. These elements are reminders of those not included on the main wall due to various reasons, yet who nevertheless deserve to be recognized for their sacrifices. The inclusion of expanded recognitions like this demonstrates the growing acknowledgment of service members' varied experiences and struggles following the war.
Attendees poured their hearts out, sharing tears and laughter alike amid the enormity of the exhibit. Everyone responded differently as they walked along the path of names of veterans, some seeking their relatives, others paying respects to veterans lost without recognition. "It’s about presence, and letting them know they are not forgotten," said one visito
r. The exhibit serves to guarantee these service members live on through stories, memories, and the shared community spirit it fosters.
Among the visitors, Vietnam veteran Ruby Scheuing spoke passionately of her experiences during the war, recalling the challenges and triumphs she saw at the 18th Surgical Hospital. Her presence underscored the diverse roles women held during the Vietnam War, often overlooked. “I am humbled to be here on the 31st anniversary of the Vietnam Women’s Memorial,” Ruby stated, showing the significance this exhibit offers not just as memory but also as acknowledgment of women's service.
Local communities were also engaged, with schools participating through visits and educational programs aimed at helping young people understand the significance of the exhibit. The aim is to pass on the lessons of sacrifice, bravery, and national pride to newer generations, instilling within them the importance of remembering their nation’s history.
Each year, exhibits like The Wall That Heals create opportunities for individuals and families to come together and share their stories of loss and honor. While visitors tend to focus on those they have lost personally, the collective remembrance provides comfort to many and fosters healing on both individual and communal levels.
The powerful act of gathering around such memorials shows the community's desire to heal the wounds of war, reminding us of the sacrifices made for freedom. There is something transcendental about being able to reflect on these duties and valor through the names inscribed along the wall.
Indeed, as The Wall That Heals makes its way through Bay County, it brings with it recognition, empathy, and education. More than just observing, many visitors have José, they engage actively—talking about the names, learning about their sacrifices, and perhaps, most significantly, relating their personal stories. It's both symbolic and practical, serving as recognition of our history by showcasing the human condition attached to such service.
The Wall That Heals is not just about remembrance; it’s about the living legacy of those who served and the continuous need for society to recognize and cherish their contributions. Whether by visiting the exhibit, attending ceremonies, or engaging with educational components, every interaction ensures the service of these brave individuals remains alive within the nation’s memory, reaching beyond the stone replicas of their sacrifices.
For those interested, The Wall That Heals will remain open for public viewing until November 17, 2024, giving everyone the chance to experience its emotional resonance as they pay respect to the past. Community members and visitors are encouraged to partake and reflect on the impacts left behind by both the Vietnam conflict and its countless veterans.
