CALLAHAN, Fla. – A memorial commemorating those who sacrificed their lives in the Vietnam War will arrive in Callahan on Thursday.
The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall, also known as “The Wall that Heals,” is a three-fifths scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.
For many, the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall serves as a place of healing and closure.
The wall honors the service and sacrifice of veterans, including 12 men from Nassau County whose names are etched into the wall.
“I hope that this serves as a welcome home that they never received when they originally came home,” said Alicia Head, public information officer and event coordinator.
The wall will be retired later on this year, due to a shortage of volunteers and the aging Vietnam veteran community.
Bringing this piece of American history to Nassau County is possible thanks to the support of local organizations and sponsors.
“It didn’t make a difference to us if (the donations) were big or small, it was the thought that counts,” said Head. “It’s definitely been all hands on deck, and everyone has been so helpful.”
The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall will be on display at the Northeast Florida Fairgrounds in Callahan from Thursday through Sunday.
Here are the lists of events happening this week surrounding the memorial wall.
Thursday
- 9:45 - 10:15 a.m. The Vietnam Voices Traveling Memorial Wall arrives in Nassau County , making its way through Callahan.
Friday
- 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. The wall hosts school field trips for students from Florida and Georgia.
- 4 p.m. The wall will be open for elderly visitors, individuals with disabilities, and Gold Star families who may prefer a quieter experience.
- 5 - 7 p.m. A veterans dinner will be held in honor of the Vietnam veterans. This is an event where veterans can exchange stories and mingle with each other. Preregistration is required and dinner will be provided by Mission BBQ.
Saturday
- 9 a.m. The opening ceremony of the wall.
Sunday
- 7 a.m. A Sunrise Easter Service is led by veteran and pastor Ed Sugzdinis.
- 8 p.m. A candlelight service
The wall will be disassembled on Monday morning and returned to Melbourne before traveling to another location.
To learn more, click here.