A Means To Heal

Texas II

2012-02-01T09:00:00.002-05:00

I flew in to Austin to save a few bucks and it turned out to be a better idea than I had thought.

I found this nice memorial in the Texas State Cemetery. Located at 909 Navasota Street it, too, is dedicated to the more than 500,000 Texans who served in 'Nam or the 'Nam Era. Dedicated in 2008 the memorial honors all branches of service and in researching this site I found that as of October, 2011, 130 are still MIA. This number differs from the one I mentioned in an earlier post, but it is much more recent and is the number used at the MIA remembrance day in October 2011.

This site is an historic place of honor. The memorial shares these acres with Stephan F. Austin, John B. Connolly, Warren G Harding and Tom Landry. In addition, there are a number of other memorials here to other wars and to 911.

This is a fairly small memorial and is soon to be joined in Austin by a new one on the capitol grounds. Funds raising is now going on and you can participate or just learn more about the new Texas Capitol Vietnam War Monument here; http://www.buildthemonument.org/

Come back on Feb. 6th to see a beautiful memorial in Waco. It will post, as always, at 9:00am

Texas

2012-01-27T09:00:00.001-05:00

"Deep in the heart o' Texas..." well, Dallas, anyway. The Texas Vietnam Memorial is located at Fair Park in Dallas. This beautiful series of walls, waterfalls and running water pays honor to the more than 500,000 Texans who risked all, during the Vietnam Era, when asked by their country and it commemorates the 3416 who actually paid that price. 107 of these are still considered MIA as of the most recent data I could find.

The site consists of 5 stone walls. Four are arranged parallel to each other. The inner 2 have names on both sides while the outer 2 have names only on the side facing inward. Offset to the northwest of these is the final piece, which is a 'Missing in Action' memorial. This memorial is covered with names from many eras including the a fore mentioned from Vietnam.

During the state fair many people put small American Flag stickers next to the names of loved ones or just to honor a fallen soldier. These attracted my attention but even more so the numbers of names that had not been so marked, honored, remembered.

The last pic shows part of a large area of dedicated bricks that did not seem to be connected to the memorial, but there was no information of any kind so it is hard to be sure.

One source I read said that the memorial was built by the DAR, but I was unable verify that anywhere else. The site saying this was also unable to reach anyone at DAR who could confirm this as true or not. Go figure!

Dedicated on November 11, 1989 by George H.W. Bush the memorial may be found at Fair Park, near First and Parry Avenues. Visit if you can. This park is a beautiful place made honorable and sacred by the inclusion of this great memorial to our brothers and sisters from the great state of Texas.

North Dakota V

2012-01-22T09:00:00.001-05:00

When I arrived in North Dakota, I was only aware of two memorial sites; Bismarck and New Rockford. This just did not seem right, so after some research and phone calls I located the one in Lidgerwood. It, also, just seemed to me that a town as big and well known as Fargo must have something. Well, after talking to a number of guys in VFW's etc, I finally realized that I was pretty much out of luck. Then one guy asked if I was aware of the Fargo Air Museum? He told me they had a version of "The Wall" there. So, I headed out.

I found the site with no problems, but was disappointed to discover that "The Wall" was only on display part time and now was not the time!

However, the museum is great place and I did find a number of 'Nam related exhibits within its walls. These included the photos here of the memorial to the four from Fargo who were lost, a full sized chopper, and a POW memorial and a small sculpture of people searching names on The Wall. I have seen this piece in a number of places and it never fails to move me.

I highly recommend this museum if you have a chance to visit Fargo. Most of their aircraft is flight ready and there are many interesting historic planes and exhibits.

North Dakota IV

2012-01-17T09:00:00.001-05:00

In the southwest corner of North Dakota is the town of Lidgerwood. I found this really nice park there and saw that it was created by the local American Legion Post. I went to the Post but no one was there. I spent some time in a local eatery, talked with some nice folks and moved on to my next destination.

The first pics show some of the hardware in the Park. I always like it when a community decides to make a memorial kid friendly.

Each of the services has one of these small circular gardens dedicated to it. And, one often finds quotes, or scriptural verses in these sacred spots, but I think that none fits so well as the one found here.

Back home, I could not stop thinking about what small towns like Lidgerwood, so often, do for their citizens. I did some checking and found out a couple of interesting things.

Lidgerwood has well under 1000 people. The 2000 census, the latest I could find, said 738 folks live there. In light of today's economy, I wonder if that number has gone up or down?

The median income is well under $30,000 (again in 2000) and the American Legion published a 75th Anniversary book about the Post in 1994. Making it, now 93 years old!

These very few folks, without tons of money managed to build this great park. While it is not specifically a Vietnam memorial, the hardware here is from our era, so, to me, it counts! The park was also pretty well maintained, speaking to the dedication of those involved. It still just astounds me that this park is more than many towns, cities, and some states do for their vets!

North Dakota III

2012-01-12T09:00:00.000-05:00

One hundred and forty miles northeast of Bismarck is the little town of New Rockford. It was remarkable to find such a nice site here. The site, while a Vietnam memorial, is dedicated to all vets. This I believe is another reflection of VVA pledge to never abandon any generation of veterans.

The site consists of a stone marker, three flags, a Huey and a M-47 Patton Tank. Oddly on another site the tank is identifies as an M-48. I am sorry to say that I do not know the difference, but apparently, both were used in 'Nam.

In an article I read about the town the writer commented that both the Huey and the Patton were pointed north, as if, expecting an invasion from Canada. The town of Rockford lies less than 200 mikes from Canada's border with the U.S. I really found this amusing, or do you think they know something we don't?

North Dakota II

2012-01-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

As I was leaving the North Dakota Capitol site, I noticed yellow ribbons affixing something to the trees that line the entrance to the Capitol grounds. Upon further inspection I found that the ribbon was securing pictures and information about MIA's from North Dakota. This, too, was something I have never seen before. The picture I walked up to stated that the soldier was the first MIA in 'Nam. I wasn't sure if this meant for the city, county, state or what. I made some calls and found out that this soldier was the first MIA from North Dakota. His plane was shot down and he has never been recovered. Interestingly, I found a site that claimed that he was recovered, but my conversation with the Fargo AmVets, named in his honor, confirmed that he was truly lost. There were quite a lot of trees lining both sides of the long oval drive in and out of the capitol grounds, Each tree had ribbons and photos of those still missing.

North Dakota

2012-01-03T09:00:00.001-05:00

For the centennial celebration of statehood, North Dakota built the All Veterans Memorial. Located just south of The Heritage Center, on the Capitol grounds it commemorates the 4050 citizens who have sacrificed their lives in the states 100 year history. These names are listed on 55 bronze panels. On 15 of these are listed the names of the 199 heroes who were lost in Vietnam.

A unique and amazing feature of this site is that there is opening in the ceiling that allows the sun to shine through. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of the year, those rays of sun fall upon the large globe in the center of the building. In fact, they fall directly upon the state of North Daklota on that globe. The "state" has been raised and polished, so that it really shines on that day. I have never seen anything quite like this in my travels. I have visited well over 300 sites across the nation and this is a first. Of course, I would have liked to have found a memorial solely to our brothers and sisters lost in 'Nam, but I must say that this one is quite something.

Next, I will cover other memorials in North Dakota. there are not too many, but I was able to locate a couple. More on the 8th, as always, at 9a.m. Remember, any underlined state is posted and you can enlarge any photo by clicking on it.

Vet Jobs Expo

2011-12-29T09:00:00.006-05:00

Today, I had planned to post a few more non-memorial pics. These photos are taken from sights I have seen as I travel to the various states to honor the Vietnam Memorials. If you are a follower of this blog, you know that I do not post memorials during the holiday season and I try to find other interesting things to write about. However, I was made aware of this Jobs Expo in D. C for vets and it seems much more appropriate to fill this space with this info. I hope in the new year that all will thrive and especially that vets will benefit from programs like this one.

A special thanks to Sue for sending the info to me!

This program is traveling across the country. Click the link below to check when it will be in your area.

Veteran Career Fair and Expo

vaforvets.va.gov

Christmas 2011

2011-12-24T09:00:00.001-05:00

It is Christmas eve and I hope that you, your family and your friends and loved ones are celebrating in some way. Regardless of religious belief, or lack of it, this is traditionally a time of year for celebration and renewal. From time beyond our memory, people have celebrated the renewal of the light, the return of the sun at this time. The ancient Celts, the Romans, the Greeks and countless others all over the planet have found a way to have hope at the darkest time of the year. I hope you and yours have hope, peace and a joyous season, whatever your belief.

The pictures here are from a very recent weekend (December 2-5) in New Mexico. I hope you enjoy them.

Be sure to remember our brave men and women who are not able to be with their loved ones at this time of year. I remember how hard it was to be in 'Nam during this season of hope, joy and renewal.

California VIII

2011-12-19T09:00:00.001-05:00

Located very near Seal Beach, just south of L.A. is the town of Westminster. Since the town has the largest Vietnamese population in Orange County, it is not surprising to find a beautiful memorial here or to learn that it was designed and sculpted by a Vietnamese (Tuan Nguyen) who escaped from a "reeducation" camp in 'Nam. After walking to Cambodia, he eventually made it to the U.S.

Said to be the first in the country to honor both American and Vietnamese soldiers this magnificent site boasts a 12 foot statue of each, an eternal flame, fountain, rose garden and the flags of both the U. S. and the Republic of Vietnam. There are a number of dedication pavers around the site and the various signs are in both Vietnamese and English.

Dedicated on April 27th, 2003, the memorial stands in Sid Goldstein Freedom Park. The park is located at 14180 All American Way. There are several government buildings on this street and thirty minute free parking.

California VII

2011-12-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

Far west of Riverside, I went to a place called Chiriaco Summit. In the middle of the desert the temp was 117 degrees and I wondered," why is there a monument this far into this desolate place?" Well, the monument, called "Wall West" by many is located at the George S. Patton Museum. This still begged the question for me; why was the Patton Museum out in the middle of nowhere?

As students of WWII will probably know, Chiriaco Summit is where the General set up his desert training sites for the war in Africa. In thousands of square miles in California and Arizona (yes, I was practically in AZ) the US trained its tank and desert warfare fighters. It is said that the tracks from tanks etc. can still be seen in the sand after all these years.

I have been unable to find out why the West Coast Vietnam Wall was placed here, but someone at the museum told me that the board of Directors wanted to honor Vietnam vets, they had the space available and so it was done.

This memorial, like some others, honors all who served and you can arrange to have your name or that of a buddy, unit, etc added for as little as $10.00. There are plenty of spaces still available.

You can see from the plaques that a number of approaches can be used. As a member of Patriot Guard, I am always proud to see that we are represented.

We all know the Wall in DC and I have written, previously, of Wall South in Pensacola. Fla. and now Wall West. You may be surprised to know that there is, also, a Wall North! I promise to write more about this one in the not too distant future.

Go here, if you would like to know more or arrange a name placing on Wall West;

www.generalpattonmuseum.com

California VI

2011-12-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

As promised, the following pictures are of the National POW/MIA Memorial in Riverside, California. The following was taken, verbatim, from the National POW/MIA website

"The Prisoner of War/Missing in Action National Memorial was designated as a national memorial by the U.S. Congress through Public Law 108-454 on December 10, 2004. Vietnam veteran Lewis Lee Millett Jr., sculpted the bronze statue which depicts an American serviceman on his knees with hands bound by his captors. The statue is surrounded by black marble pillars that evoke imprisonment. The memorial was formally dedicated at Riverside National Cemetery on September 16, 2005. It stands in honor to all American prisoners of war and those listed missing. (bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith) "

This, for me, was a very difficult site to visit. The plight of thousands upon thousands of soldiers tells the story of man's inhumanity to man. I have read that since the Revolutionary War, 188,000 are unaccounted for, and most probably never will be!

While this memorial honors ALL, I guess I will always see it as a 'Nam memorial. The fact that it was sculpted by a 'Nam vet and the presence of the POW/MIA flag which came from the Vietnam War adds to that feeling for me. I found an interesting site about the flag and you can read the interesting and touching story of the POW/MIA flag here;

http://www.rollingthunderco1.org/Pages/the_powmia_flag.htm

California V

2011-12-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

Those of you who follow this blog will remember that in July (7/29/11) and August (8/18/11) I wrote extensively about a memorial created by Tom Schomberg and later commissioned and placed by Tom Kane. The initial placement, you will recall, was at a church in Denver and later in Ireland to commemorate the visit by the traveling Wall.

I promised, at the time, to tell more of the story at a later time. Well, I have now visited the third and final placement of this beautiful and haunting memorial.

The National POW Memorial is located in the National Cemetery at Riverside, California. Located about 70 miles east of Los Angeles, this astoundingly beautiful site is, also, the home of the last of three memorials commissioned by Tom Kane.

The following pictures are of these two remarkable visions from our war; the lost soldier and a POW. Those of us who were lucky enough to survive, no matter our difficulties, must always remember these heroes. I will post additional photos of the POW memorial, next time, on the 9th of December, as always, at 9:00am

The cemetery is located at Harmon and Van Buren in Riverside and is extremely beautiful and worth a visit if you are in the area.

California IV

2011-11-29T09:00:00.000-05:00

I think that for we of the Vietnam generation, Salinas, California is imbedded in our collective memory forever. Probably due to Janis Joplin's hit of Me and Bobby McGee; "Somewhere near Salinas, Lord, I let her slip away, looking for that home, and I hope she finds it" A song that speaks to loneliness and isolation that just might touch a nerve in a soldier thousands of miles from family and loved ones.

When I discovered that I was only 45 minutes from Salinas, I decided to stop by to see what they might have and was amazed to find this remarkable site.

It is the only one I have seen, out of several hundred so far, that has as its main component a sandbag wall. As familiar as this would be to any 'Nam vet, it just doesn't turn up too often and this is by far the largest one I have seen. This flag lined wall is fronted by a Vietnam Service Ribbon, and has a huge Flag Wall with names of local heroes inscribed upon it sitting just behind it. In addition, school children have made and placed ceramic mosaic tiles with various sentiments upon them. This, too, I think is unique. I have not seen many other sites where children have been highly involved. The only other one I can think of right off hand is the previously posted Connecticut memorial.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T09:00:00.003-05:00

I'm taking a break today to spend time with family and friends. I hope all of you are too. While giving thanks today, in whatever manner you do so, remember to be thankful that you made it back!

Take a moment to be thankful that we have young men and women, all over the world willing to be away from their homes and, possibly, make the ultimate sacrifice for our country. I think one of the silver linings of Vietnam is that we have learned not to blame the soldier for decisions made by others. Whatever your views are on this war or that, remember those who are away, and most likely very homesick, this Thanksgiving 2011.

California III

2011-11-19T09:00:00.001-05:00

There last few shots highlight some of the remaining components of the site. As promised earlier, the first and second shots are of the dedication plaque and statue. The plaque below the statue gives some info on each of the elements within the memorial.

The third shot is of a map of Vietnam. It is pretty detailed with names of many familiar places. A compass rose is located nearby.

The fourth pic is of a plaque placed above the map reminding us of the most infamous of the prison camps in 'Nam and what these heroes withstood.

The last pic is of a fairly well known poem by Maj. Michael O'Donnell included here so that we might always remember.

"Take what they have left you
and what they have taught you
with their dying
and keep it with your own

And in that time when men decide
and feel safe
to call the war insane

Take one moment to embrace
those gentle heroes
You left behind"

It seems fitting to me that the California memorial should be grand. California lost more of her sons and daughters to this effort than any other state; 5822 lost or missing.

California II

2011-11-14T09:00:00.002-05:00

Once inside the memorial, the story of "a day in the life" is told through additional statuary and Bas Relief panels. The young soldier, reading his letter from home is surrounded by the realities of his current life and the war. Even though we referred to all else as "the world" thus making 'Nam not real, we knew what the reality really was and they are depicted here for all to see.

The first picture is of an unidentified POW as it sits wondering about his fate at the Hanoi Hilton, sitting next to him (picture two) is what is usually an empty bowl. The night before my visit it had rained and filled the bowl with water. I could not help but think about the conditions these heroes survived and the "food" they were given. The water made me think of a thin gruel that may have been a days ration.

Picture three is of some of the things guys might have had or treasured while in country. It took me a minute to realize that the figure in the back is a short timers calender of the dancing Snoopy! Snoopy and short timer calendars, along with the Huey chopper are some of the most iconic symbols of the time! For those who may not know, a short timers calendar was used by guys who were down to 100 days left in country. Like the religious Advent calendars some use, each day was marked off until you reached number one and were going home, back to "The World" These took any number of forms. Often something meaningful to the particular G.I. but more often something iconic, like Snoopy or something somewhat more graphic. Those who were there know and for the rest I'll let you imagine.

Picture 4 and 5 are of a couple of the daily life depictions from around the memorial. I think they require no explanation.

Veteran' Day 11-11-11

2011-11-11T11:00:00.005-05:00

I never anticipated, all those 43 years ago, that today I would be dedicating much of my life to vets. This effort to see, record, and honor Vietnam memorials started out about me and began many years after trying to forget, ignore and act as if 'Nam had never happened. Driven by whatever I was still carrying around from 'Nam, I began searching out these sites and posting them and discovered that I was actually helping other vets. I have heard from many, from all over the world, that they have benefited from the same realization that I had; that America had found a way to to say, "Hey guys, we didn't really mean all that stuff we said" and finally, long over due, "Welcome Home" I spent part of this trip on Ft. Bragg and I can't help but wonder as I think about all these young soldiers I saw, what will their lives be like 43 years from now? How will they be remembered and honored? What struggles will they have faced? What will we as Americans have done to help them through their trials? So, with that in mind, to all my brothers and sisters who made it back, let's be sure we do not abandon them, as we were abandoned and, also, be sure to take a moment to remember and honor those who did not make it home with us.

These pics are of the Moving Wall which was in Veteran's Park in Fayetteville as part of their Vietnam Veteran's Welcome Home events this week. I usually try to take pictures without people in them, but I really liked these, especially the two guys finding a name on The Wall.

Veteran's Day 2011/ 11-11-11

California

2011-11-09T09:00:00.002-05:00

I think it is time to move on from New Hampshire. I have some more photos from there and will post them at a later time.

Kate Wolf used to sing about the golden rolling hills of California and I have traveled through many of them. If I were to write only about California until I had posted every where I have gone, I would be on the subject for months! I have been as far north as Grass Valley (I hope to get further up in the state but it has not happened as of yet) and down to the Mexican border. I have gone as far east as Chirico Summit and Nevada City and west to Coronado. So, I will limit how many I post at this time, but will return from time to time to fill in the missed places.

As always, I will begin with the official state memorial. Located on the Capitol grounds, at 15th and Capitol ave. in Sacramento it is one of the most interesting I have visited. It tells a story. A story of a day in a life of a soldier in 'Nam.

The memorial is made up of a number of components and I expect it will take three postings to tell its story.

Today, a few of the basics.

The first picture is of the memorial, note the panels that are inscribed with the 5822 names of those lost or missing. Each of these is listed in a grouping from his/her home town along with their rank and branch of service. A number of benches are placed around the outside for quiet reflection.

The second picture is of a 19 year old soldier reading a letter from home. Those who were there remember that there was no time of day more anticipated than mail call and the joy of hearing from someone back in the world, and the disappointment of not!

Picture three was taken during a night visit to the site. I think it is especially compelling as some unknown visitor has inserted a photograph into the soldiers letter. One must imagine that the person who left it suffered great loss during the war. If not 'Nam, perhaps another!

Picture 4 is part of the dedication marker more of which I will post later.

Picture 5 is a tribute to Brien Collins who lost an arm and a leg during his second tour of 'Nam. He went on to serve in government for three governors and as an Assemblyman. He was a driving force in the building of this memorial and is quoted as saying;

Is the world a better place because you were here?
Did you make a difference?

He seems to me to be a man to remind us of our fortune and abilities and of what can be accomplished if we choose to make it happen.

More, next time, on this magnificent site.

New Hampshirw VIII

2011-11-04T09:00:00.003-04:00

On the way back to Manchester Airport, we passed this small memorial site. I took some pics and we headed home. I either never noted what town we were in or have completely forgotten. I figured this site was lost to me as I had no info to give on it. I spent hours trying to track it down on the net and even retracing my route on Google maps, hoping to find it from their photos. Nothing. I asked friends in New Hampshire and they were unable to pinpoint it for me.

Then, I realized that there was a name of a company on one of the benches. I looked up the name and discovered that it was a company in Massachusetts. I wrote them with very little hope of anyone there being able to help or that they would even respond. Well, within 10 minutes of my email, someone from the company called me. He explained that the memorial was in a town called Enfield. He said that the CEO of the company was from Enfield and wanted to do something. He designed the site and the company helped to pay for it. So, I went from believing that I would never find the info I needed to having a complete story in 15 minutes! Amazing! This journey I am on never ceases to astound me. The story just seems to unfold and I get to be the guy to tell it!

Next, I am going to move on from New Hampshire and pick up across country in California. You may recall the post about Tom Schomberg's memorial in Denver (July/Aug 2011) that lead to Ireland and back. I want to fill in some additional information in that story. So, join me next in The Golden State on November 9th as always, at 9am.

New Hampshire VII (Update)

2011-10-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

After a little more research I have discovered that two from Franklin were lost. SP5 David B. Perraualt and SSG. Joseph Andrew Rayno. So, sadly, perhaps my original observation is correct. If no one from a particular town was lost, then no memorials are built. If you know otherwise, please let me know.

New Hampshire VII

2011-10-28T09:00:00.001-04:00

In Franklin, we found across this small park on a corner. Located at the intersection of Central Street and Main Street, its dignity is evident and appropriate. There are no names listed here, so, one hopes that none of her sons and daughters were lost to Franklin.

I think that it is great that a town honors all who served. It does seem that if no one was lost, often there is no memorial of any kind. So, to find one like this is especially nice.

New Hampshire VI

2011-10-23T09:00:00.000-04:00

Founded in 1735 this town was renamed Dunbarton in 1765 after the hometown of a prominent citizen. 22 of the towns slightly more that 2200 perished in Vietnam. These heroes are remembered and honored on this granite rock which sits outside the Town Hall. The grounds consist of a park like setting with tall trees and a lovely gazebo. Once again I am touched by what some small towns do to honor their own. Clearly, with more limited resources that some big place, they have tough decisions to make and they should be proud to have made this one. Dunbarton Center is not far from our last stop in New Boston.

New Hampshire V

2011-10-18T09:00:00.000-04:00

Just a little ways down Route 13 from New Boston is this marker.

It designates a 3.3 mile section of Route 13 as the Davis Scenic Drive. I searched extensively for information about Ronald Davis and found very litlle. His father was once the Chief of Police for the town, but Ronald was just like most of us. A young man who answered his county's call and like so many others paid the ultimate price. He will be remembered here, forever.

New Hampshire IV

2011-10-11T09:00:00.004-04:00

Our next stop after the Veteran's cemetery was New Boston. This beautiful New England town has a small park on Meetinghouse Hill road near Rte. 13. The multiwar memorial stands in the shadow of tall trees and a beautiful gazebo.

If you look closely at the "older" section of the plaque you can see the names listed and you will notice on the marker that more names have been added to the original. No one is left behind. I was notified today that 3 more Americans have been identified using DNA. This leads me to speculate that many many more of these memorial sites will be updated as time passes, as they should be!

We went into the local General Store right next to the site and the guys there directed us to the next site, just down the road.

Read about that one on the 18th of October.

New Hampshire III

2011-10-06T09:00:00.000-04:00

While we were visiting Boscawen we noticed a guy walking in with a bugle in his hand. We got talking to him and it turns out that every night from Memorial Day to September 11th someone comes and plays Taps at the cemetery. This has become a tradition at the site and these musicians, all volunteers, sometimes travel a great distance to do their part. The gentleman we spoke to drives 50 miles each way just to play 24 notes at 7p.m.

These volunteers are young and old, male and female, vets and non vets, but all want to be part of this solemn tribute to New Hampshire's, and by extension, our nation's lost heroes. Steve and I and two other visitors were the only ones present as the instantly recognizable melody floated over this sacred and beautiful place. He told us that sometimes dozens of bulers play at the same time, some echoing the others. That must be a very emotional moment and I doubt that here is a dry eye in the place.

Interestingly, Memorial Day to 9/11 is 100 days and thus the people involved in this tribute call themselves "100 Nights of Remembrance" You can find out more about them here;

http://www.100nightsofremembrance.org/

The bench, donated by the organization, actually has the correct musical notation for Taps!

If you look in the background of the pictures, up on the hill, you can see stone pillars (for lack of a better word) in front of the mousoleums. Each of these has a photo and information about American involvement in a number of wars. The last photo is of the one that gives a little history about Vietnam. This is currently the last in the series. I do not know when, or if, they might be adding more about our more current involvements.

New Hampshire II

2011-10-01T09:00:00.002-04:00

The memorial grove, as I call it, at Boscawen features a number of other memorials. They may not be specifically Vietnam related but they are fitting and beautiful. The following photos are of just a few of these.

The first picture is of the Navy memorial asking for remembrance of those sailors who have died in service to our country. I was recently in California and visited the magnificent Navy Vietnam Memorial in Coronado, near San Diego. It, too, is quite remarkable and I will write more about it when I begin relating my travels in the Golden State. I expect to be writing about California in the not too distant future.

The second and third photo here depict the Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial. I have never actually seen one before. It is in a serene little spot with benches for quite reflection. It was quite moving.

The next one is one of two from Rolling Thunder. Most know of their ongoing tribute and honor to vets, but I wonder how many know that their name comes from the B-52 b0ombing missions in "Nam. These were referred to as rolling thunder and could be heard and felt many miles away. The sound of dozens (or hundreds) of Harleys or other big bikes is reminiscent of this, so hence the name.

The final picture is of the Air Force memorial. It is a replica of the one in Arlington, Va. Situated on the grounds of Ft. Myer, the three spires recall soaring and one of the maneuvers of the Air Force Thunderbirds flying team. Here, as well as, in Arlington, the memorial leaves one spot open for the "missing man" as is the custom at flyovers at funerals.

You can find much more info about the Air Force Memorial here;

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Air_Force_Memorial

New Hampshire

2011-09-26T09:00:00.003-04:00

The New Hampshire Vietnam memorial sits in a lovely grove of trees just as you enter the state Veteran's cemetery. Located in Boscawen (110 Danial Webster Highway) this unusual site not only boasts the Nam memorial, but a number of others as well. As you walk through the cathedral-like grove on the brick paths you will find dedications from Vietnam Veteran's of America, Rolling Thunder and the Nam Knights. In addition there are POW, Air Force and Navy sites, something one does not often see.

New Hampshire gave, depending on whom you listen to, 226, 227, or 238 of her sons to the efforts in Nam. Regardless of the actual number, they are remembered and honored here along with veterans, of other wars, in other times, throughout the cemetery.

As you enter the cemetery you proceed down this flag lined road. The Nam memorial is to your right and from there you enter the grove with all of its monuments.

The writing on the bench, to the left of the insignia, at the Nam Knights site says that they are a military and law enforcement motorcycle club. Note that the dragon is holding a Vietnam Service Ribbon in his front paws!

This is another one of those visits that is going to take more than one posting to due justice. So, for now I will simply include these initial photos and over the next couple of posts (every 5 days) fill in the rest from this remarkable and dignified tribute. Check back because there is a story here about a daily tribute that you may find very interesting. So far it is unique on my journey!

Thank you to Veteran's Advantage

2011-09-26T08:59:00.004-04:00

Just a quick post to thank Veteran's Advantage for designating A Means To Heal as a Site of Distinction. Veteran's Advantage is an organization that devotes itself to aiding vets in a variety of ways. The Site of Distinction is, as stated on their site;

" ... awarded after a special Veterans Advantage review of excellence in content and design and a focus on the Respect, Recognition, and Rewards of US Veterans, active duty military, and their families."

Their award is placed on the left side of this page. If you click it, it will take you to their site.

Their stated mission is to remind us all that how we treat our veterans directly influences the willingness of citizens to serve in the military. This fact was commented upon by none other than General George Washington at the founding of our Nation and you can read more of his prophetic statement on their site.

Again, I am honored to have been recognized by Veteran's Advantage.

Colorado XI

2011-09-21T09:00:00.003-04:00

Just a few more shots of interest from the Western Slope Memorial.

The first shot is of the Vietnam Service ribbon near the chopper.

The next is a donation from the Vietnam Vets Motorcycle club.

The next one is of a time capsule that is to be opened in the future.

The last one brought home a number of memories for me. I carried one of these ammo boxes with me every time we were on the water. If I have not mentioned it before, I was a boat operator and spent a lot of time running up and down the Mekong river. These were claimed to be waterproof, so I carried anything I needed to keep dry in one I picked up somewhere in my travels. When mustering out of 'Nam, it was confiscated by the Army, so I lost it. So, to see this one here was kind of cool, someone got one out!!

I think this post will do it for now from Colorado. Time to move on. I will post a few more from Colorado at some future date, so keep checking back for them.

Next, I will be in New England, again, so join me on the 26th for something new.

Colorado X

2011-09-16T09:00:00.002-04:00

One of the most gripping and poignant components of the western slope site is the sculpture, Welcome Home!

It was sculpted by Colorado artist, Richard Arnold. He, kindly, told me some of the story of this piece. He showed the finished work to a group of vets, who told him it was perfect, but he could see that there was something they were not quite comfortable with about the sculpture. Upon further questioning from him they told him they thought the uniform on the returning Marine was too neat and that he would not be smiling. Richard, who served in Danang in '65 realized that they were, indeed, correct. He reworked the statue until all agreed it was spot on. Then, one of the vets said, "let me place the Marine, so it is just right" He placed the soldier looking between his expectant parents, explaining that "He was not home, yet" Those who were there and their families will remember or understand that so many of us went away kids, and came home old men. This is made so painfully clear by the look (that should have been of joy) on the face of this soldiers mother.

In talking with Richard, I discovered that he is also the sculptor of the vet standing at the Wall in Mobile, Alabama. I wrote about him and the Mobile site some months ago. If you have not seen it you can find it here;

http://michaelfwalsh.blogspot.com/search/label/Alabama

or just go back to the first page of this site and click on Alabama

I will note, again, that any state that is underlined has been posted, just click and you are there. Any photo can be enlarged by clicking on it, too.

Richard, also, told me about another site recently completed in Louisiana. I will fill you in on that one after I have an opportunity to see it and photograph it.

To visit Richard's studio, go here;

http://www.arnoldtelluridestudio.com/works.html

September 11, 2011

2011-09-11T09:00:00.006-04:00

September 11, 2001 will be burned into our collective memories with other momentous dates, such as November 22, and December 7th, for all time. I wanted to take a moment today and interrupt the Colorado series of Vietnam memorials to remember and honor our fallen brothers and sisters.

As you know, my journey is about Vietnam, but occasionally I run across a 911 memorial. I thought I would share a couple of them today in remembrance, mourning and respect.

The first picture is of one I have shared previously. It is called the Court of Honor and is located in Prospect Hill Cemetery in York, Pennsylvania. Its inscribed names honor many who have served and fallen, but the lintel across the top is an actual piece from the Twin Towers.

http://www.prospecthill.org/CourtOfValor.htm

The second picture is from the park in Soddy Daisy, Tennessee. I wrote about the 'Nam memorial there earlier, but now is the fitting time to share this one. While not huge, it is indeed poignant. It can be found in the 9000 block of Dayton Pike.

The last couple of pictures are from Montgomery County, Maryland. On a corner in the middle of Rockville, the county seat, sits a beautiful and dignified memorial to those county residents who perished in the attack on the Pentagon. I sometimes think that in the magnitude of the events in New York and the heroics in Shanksville, Pa., those who lost their lives in the Pentagon attack are overshadowed. It was with great feeling that I discovered this tribute to our neighbors. Eleven of those lost at the Pentagon lived in my community and each of them is remembered here by a bench with his or her name etched upon it. In addition, a favorite saying, or passage from a book or poem along with a facsimile of their signature makes each of these personalized and intimate. The park is designed so that on September 11, each bench is illuminated by the sun as it passes over the site. On the day I visited, bouquets of roses had been left on each bench by family members or loved ones. It was a deeply moving display of love for our family members, our loved ones, our neighbors who were lost, but will never be forgotten.

William Edward Caswell
Dr. Gerald Paul Fisher
Capt. Lawrence D. Getzfred
Michele M. Heidenberger
Angela Marie Houtz
Teddington Hamm Moy
Lt. Darin H. Pontell
Scott A. Powell
Todd Hayes Reuben
Patricia J. Statz
Ernest M. Willcher

This dignified and beautiful tribute sits at the corner of Rte 28 and Maryland Ave. across from the court house

Colorado X

2011-09-07T09:00:00.003-04:00

I have been following the development of the Western Slope Memorial, on line, for quite some time. I was determined to see it when I got to Colorado, so I was very excited as we pulled into the parking lot of the Visitors Center in Fruita (near Grand Junction).

The weather chose not to cooperate just as we arrived. We had very little time to visit and take pictures, but wind, rain and thunder and lightning not withstanding, it was worth it!

What a great place! This is another of those sites that is going to take at least two posts to do justice.

What began as a brothers tribute to his brother has developed into this magnificent tribute to all. It is a treasure and you should see it if you get an opportunity.

Two buddies joined up together. Two buddies gave their all! One was killed (1971) after 100's of flying missions and the other brought him home to Colorado and his family.

His brother thought for years about building a memorial to him and The Western Slope Vietnam Memorial is the culmination of that dream.

The site, however, as I said, is more than that. It honors anyone who served during the Vietnam Era, as it is called, in-country or out-Everyone! Anyone who qualifies can contact the site and arrange for their name, or the name of a loved one to be added to the black granite walls supporting the Huey.

Those who made the final sacrifice are honored under the American flag as shown in the final picture.

The walkways (fourth pic), called the Walk of Honor, are for anyone who would like to support the effort.

I have read that the site offers music and narration to visitors, but it was not working the day I was there.

The friend who brought his buddy home was killed a number of years later (1986) in a flying accident. Ironic!

To learn more, or honor a soldier, or donate to support the site, go here;

http://www.field-of-dreams.org/

To read more about the friend, go here;

http://www.field-of-dreams.org/MarshallDavis.html

Colorado IX

2011-09-02T09:00:00.002-04:00

Driving through the beautiful Colorado mountains, we came to a place called Florence. Near the junction of Route 67 and Highway 50 is this great memorial.

Col. Boston was lost over North Vietnam, near Hanoi in April of 1966. This memorial was built to him and many others who answered when their country called and ultimately made the supreme sacrifice.

All American involvements are commemorated and honored here. 1316 heroes are honored here on the 2299 bricks that make up the wall. One expects that the remaining bricks will someday honor those now, or in the future, who serve the country.

The memorial is interesting because my first research said it was in Florence, the plaque on the site itself, says Canon City, but the address I found on line says 60298 Highway 50, Pemrose, Colorado. It is located on Highway 50 not far from the intersection with Route 67, near the Fremont County Airport.

To complete this story, today, I found a story telling of the recovery, identification and internment of Col. Boston. The joint POW/MIA Command with the aid of local Vietnamese citizens uncovered the remains of Col. Boston in 2000. but the technology to identify them did not exist at the time. Last April (2011), his remains were positively identified and he was buried with full military honors this past July (2011). He and his family can now rest in peace! It seems fitting somehow that I visited this spot in June and am writing these words in August (they will not post until September 2nd, however) Even though it took almost exactly 45 years to identify Col Boston, it gives hope that all of our brothers will eventually be returned to us and to their families.

You can read more about Col. Boston here;

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazette/obituary.aspx?n=leo-s-boston&pid=152436899

Colorado VIII

2011-08-28T09:00:00.003-04:00

While driving through Gunnison, we came across a Veteran's park and found this nice memorial. The boots, rifle and bayonet, helmet, and on some occasions, dog tags, known as a field cross, is dedicated specifically to Vietnam lost. The field cross is said to have been used first during the American Civil War as a means to identify fallen soldiers. Today, it has become more of an icon of respect for the lost

I spoke with several people from the town and finally hooked up with one of the people responsible for the memorial's placement. He explained that two men from Gunnison were lost in 'Nam. The town, which consists of about 5400 people wanted to do something to memorialize their lost neighbors and honor all who had served. So, collections were taken up and people donated from $1.00 to $1,000 and the memorial was created. I noted the footprints in front of the field cross and my contact said he assumed they were from someone saluting the cross. I wondered if they were from the boots of those who created the sacred remembrance to a fallen brother.

This is an American Legion Park and there are other memorials here, also. I found the eagles elsewhere in this nice city park.

The park is easily located on Highway 50 which runs right through Gunnison.

Next time I visit a memorial near Florence dedicated to a pilot whose remains were identified and interred 45 years after he was lost over Hanoi. Join me on September 2nd.

Colorado VII

2011-08-23T09:00:00.001-04:00

Driving south from Colorado Springs and Pueblo we (if I haven't mentioned it earlier, my buddy Steve was on this trip with me) were forced off the road by the raging wildfires in Arizona and New Mexico. The road was closed at Trinidad which lies about 20 miles north of the border with New Mexico. As luck would have it, Trinidad, where we were forced off, was our destination, any further south and we would have been out of luck.

We met a fellow vet in town and he took us to the memorial which sits at the visitors center. He pointed out that the front of the memorial is dedicated to those who were lost and the reverse honors all who served. I always like it when a site can do that.

The third photo shows a dedication from the Vietnamese community at the base of the memorial. I have run across several of these in my travels. To me, they seem fitting, but I have met other vets (not in Trinidad) who do not think them appropriate. It saddens me that the pain goes on and is so deep for so many.

In addition, a smaller memorial was added after names that were left off the original were discovered. The sides have a number of additional names added and space for any additional names that may surface. The last photo is a close-up of the top of this second memorial.

I am often astonished at what some towns will do. In 1999 Trinidad had a population of under 10,000 and yet they had the desire and commitment to honor these heroes. It must not have been easy to accomplish this project and it does great honor to the town that they were determined to make this happen.

I did a little research on Trinidad and discovered that in the 1880's Bat Masterson was the sheriff! When I was a kid one of my favorite TV shows was Bat Masterson starring Gene Barry. Amazing what the mind retains!!

From here I move on to Gunnison and a nice site in a city park.

Colorado VI

2011-08-18T09:00:00.016-04:00

Most of you know that I do not use anyone's name in my writing, but I make an exception today as I post these additional thoughts about these sites. I have received permission from all involved to use their names and, in this case, a photograph.

I received a nice email today from Tom Schomberg, the sculptor of the Denver memorial I wrote about a couple of posts back (see 7/29/11). He wanted me to be sure to give proper credit to Tom and Judy Kane, the folks who commissioned the memorials. He explained that Tom Kane had been a Marine pilot in 'Nam and that without his deep commitment and understanding of the needs of vets, the memorial might never have been placed. If he had never placed the one in Denver it is easy to see that the ones in Riverside National Cemetery in California and Adare Manor in Ireland would also have never been possible.

I have just recently exchanged a number of emails with Tom (Kane) and he sent me a lot of information about the dedication of the memorial in Ireland. As I mentioned in the previous post, the Schomberg memorial was to be placed in honor of the visit of the Traveling Wall to Ireland. A number of Irish citizens were lost fighting for the US in 'Nam. The families of the 16 known Irish casualties were invited to Adare Manor and 65 members from 12 of the families were able to attend. In addition, a number of Americans, including the Schombergs and Jan Scruggs (VVMF) were able to attend, too. Bertie Ahearn, the Taoiseach* (Irish Prime Minister) attended, gave the opening remarks and spent two full days with the families and visitors. So, it is with the utmost gratitude and respect that I salute Tom and Judy Kane for their commitment, generosity and, through these memorials, service to all vets.

The picture posted here is the first one I have ever posted that I did not take myself. It was taken by Tom Kane and is used with his permission. I will get to Ireland and photograph the memorial myself sometime in the not too distant future (I hope), but until that time I wanted you to see this magnificent site. I was actually at Adare in the mid 90's, before either memorial was placed. I was struck, at the time, by its elegant beauty and now the addition of this haunting tribute only adds to my love of this ancient (and now sacred) place.

Although he is adamant that the memorial be the focus of this effort, not Adare Manor, Tom and his wife, Judy, have refurbished the site and made it into a first class resort. It is located on many acres of beautiful Irish countryside and you can find more information here;

http://www.adaremanor.com/

In case I failed to mention it previously, Tom Schomberg is also the sculptor of the War Dog memorial at Fort Benning, Georgia, and Riverside, in addition to the "Rocky" statue at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

You can visit Tom's studio to see these and many other of his great works here;

http://www.schombergstudios.com/

* Taoiseach is Gaelic and is pronounced Teesha, at least that is as close as I can come!!

Colorado V

2011-08-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

I could not find any official memorials in Denver. I did locate a POW memorial in the Capitol building which is the first shown here. It is located on the entrance floor in a corner. The last one was in Colorado Springs, so I decided to include them both at this time.

I think I have noted before that the POW flag was designed by the wife of a 'Nam POW, but has since become the icon for all POW/MIA's from any war. I read on a memorial in Alabama that there are 188,000 MIA's from all American involvements. I am not sure how these figures are determined or if they are even accurate, but whatever the number, it is huge. These, along with all of those killed, are in fact the costs of war, not the dollars, the machinery, not the national issues often stated as justification.

Colorado IV

2011-08-08T09:00:00.001-04:00

288 Forward Air Controllers are honored at this site.

American planes were so fast that the pilots had trouble pinpointing, or even seeing, the enemy on the ground. So, smaller, slower aircraft were used to track enemy movement and positions. As time went on and the ground fire power increased, faster planes were eventually called upon for this critical mission. These pilots, who were all experienced fighter/bomber pilots, became experts in noting changes to landscape, number of people, etc in a given area and would send this info back to the folks who made attack decisions. Often these smaller planes were relatively safe as the enemy would not want to expose their position by firing upon them, however, many were shot down or crashed on were in some way destroyed and this led to the 288 honored here.

You can read much more about the role these heroic pilots played in the greatest FAC system in history, here;

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forward_air_controllers_in_the_Vietnam_War

or here;

http://www.cc.gatech.edu/~tpilsch/AirOps/facs.html

Colorado III

2011-08-03T09:00:00.003-04:00

Between Denver and Pueblo lies Colorado Springs. As it is the home of the Airforce Academy and Fort Carson is near by, it is no surprise that vets are well remembered by the city.

Prospect Park, a huge public area in the city, is the home of 17 memorials to vets. Several of these are to 'Nam vets.

Today, I will focus on the main memorial dedicated to all veterans and the one to the 619 Coloradans who perished in Vietnam.

The first picture is of the main memorial in the park. It dominates the skyline from every direction as it sits on the highest point in the city.

The next two pictures are of the Vietnam memorial and the plaque noting the time capsule on site.

The last photo is of the date on the main memorial. 1968 makes it one of the very first. I have had a lot of people on my journeys, claim to be the first. I find that, often, they are mistaken. Perhaps that will be a project for the future; trying to determine where the very first memorial to Vietnam vets is actually located and when it was erected!

The post that follows this one will honor Forward Air Controllers and POW's.

Colorado II

2011-07-29T09:00:00.002-04:00

The dream of honoring these memorials is old. I cannot pinpoint the exact date of its birth, but in 1989 I drove from Maryland to Fairbanks, Alaska and took my very first pictures on that trip. So, it began sometime prior to then.

One of the places I stopped that summer was in Denver, Colorado. I had a couple of hours between flights and decided to check out what the city might have to offer.

I walked out of the old Stapleton Airport and got into the first cab in the long line out front. I said to the driver, "Take me to the Vietnam Memorial" As we drove along he told me his story. He had been in medical school and failed to file his deferment papers on time. Nine months, or so, later, he was in 'Nam. A story we have all heard too many times.

He drove me into town and pointed to the memorial. As I left the cab, he said, "Hey buddy, can I go with you? I have never seen it up close." We walked over and there enclosed by the pillars of a tall building was the monument. We stood gazing at it, trying not to weep in front of each other. We were only moderately successful. I took a number of photographs and we returned to the airport so I could make my connection. As I left the cab, he shook my hand and said he would like to have a copy of my book should I eventually complete it.

Over the next 20 years or so, I continued to dream and think about this project. Waiting until retirement from my school system to be able to begin in earnest. As I planned my journey I remembered the pictures from Denver and wondered if I could use them. I knew that this project would take a lot of time and probably more money than I anticipated. So, if I could use old pics, it might save me a trip and therefore, some money. Interestingly, I found all the photographs from that trip except the Denver shots. I searched and searched and they are just gone. I have no idea (or memory) of what might have happened to them. So, I began to research the memorial and try determine its location so that I could photograph it, once again. I could find nothing. Not one word, one picture, one mention, of this memorial in all of my searching. I spoke with friends who lived in Denver for many years and they were not familiar with the site. They even tried to locate it for me on a visit to see their grown children in Denver. Nothing.

The time arrived for my trip to Colorado. I figured I must be able to find someone in the city who knew what I was looking for. Upon arrival, I called the local VFW and talked to a guy who was very helpful, but did not know the site. He called me back the next day, after checking with his own contacts, to tell me he was unsuccessful. He gave me some other numbers to call. During this process I left several messages around the city.

As I was driving through the town, my cell rang and it was someone from the Adjutant General's Office returning my call. She was very kind, enthusiastic and bent over backwards to help me. But, she did not know the memorial I was seeking. We had several phone conversations and email exchanges, but no monument. During one call I remembered that the memorial had been at a very tall building that seemed to nearly encompass an old Catholic church. There was dead silence on the other end of the line, she said, "Mike, you're not going to believe this, but that was my church many years ago. I know exactly where it is!" She gave me the address and I was less than two blocks from the site! I called her back a few minutes later to report that I was standing in front of the memorial, once again, trying not to weep! I thought it had been lost to me, but there it was; on the corner of 19th and California, next to Holy Ghost Catholic Church. It reminds me of some scripture I heard, probably as a kid, about "...the lost being found..." It turns out that the sculpture was donated to the church by a 'Nam vet. When I saw it, more than 20 years ago, there was a large American flag suspended above it. The flag seemed to be getting lowered to cover the poncho clad soldier. The flag is now gone and no one seems to know why. The sculptor suggested that it is probably as simple as budget cuts and efforts to save money. I miss that flag. It gave me the chills when I first saw it. Some might suggest that there may be some connection between the monument and its location. As the world's greatest skeptic, I have my doubts, but who is to say?

I took a bunch of pics and was very pleased that it had finally all worked out when just an hour or so earlier I was ready to admit defeat and leave Denver. Little did I know that this story was not over!

My contact called me back and said she had talked with the sculptor, who was excited about my project and wanted to talk to me.

After a couple failed attempts, we finally hooked up, and more of this amazing story, unfolded.

It seems the sculptor made a model of the statue to enter as a submission for a competition to choose the New York City Vietnam Memorial. When something else was chosen, he consigned the model to a spot in his studio. The church's benefactor happened into the shop, saw the model and commissioned the sculptor to create the statue that now stands outside the church. The sculptor, by this time, had decided to make the piece a more general and inclusive war memorial (which may help explain why I had so much difficulty locating it while looking for Vietnam memorials) The benefactor, later, had a second copy placed at the Riverside National Cemetery which is also the home of the National POW/MIA memorial. (I will be at Riverside in August and will post more about it at a future date)

Well, now the story takes an interesting twist!

Jump to Ireland a few years back. Declan Hughes, a well known Irish writer and as it turns out somewhat of an activist, is given a ring that the Vietnamese government had given a visitor to the country. The ring, it turns out belonged to an Irish citizen killed in 'Nam. Hughes began a search to find the family of the ring's owner. During this process he began to wonder if more than one Irishman had died in 'Nam. His research turned up quite a few! 19 men and one woman were identified as KIA. He then asked those responsible for the Traveling Wall to bring it to Ireland. You can read a more complete telling of this part of the story, here;

http://www.irishveteransmemorialproject.com/article.html

The wall traveled to Ireland and one of the places it rested was on Adare Manor in Limerick. Adare Manor, quite unbelievably to me, is owned by the church's and riverside's benefactor, the same guy who commissioned the first two statues! He had a third statue commissioned (the maximum the sculptor will allow) and had it placed at Adare Manor to honor the visit of the Traveling Wall to Ireland!

It interests me how a simple visit to a memorial, more than 20 years ago, can lead to such an fascinating and ever evolving story and how what amounts to a desperate phone call to the Adjutant Generals office in Colorado actually made it all come to light. I cannot thank the people (you know who you are!) in the Adjutant's Office enough for their on going interest and support of this story and as a result my whole project. Their professionalism assures me that Vets in Colorado are well served by people who care and really get it!!

Colorado

2011-07-24T09:00:00.005-04:00

The Colorado Vietnam memorial is in Pueblo, a couple of hours south of Denver. Located in a small park in the median of the road it lists the names of all 621 (the latest figure I can find) from the state who lost their lives in 'Nam. It also tells the story of the first American woman killed. In 1965 a bomb placed outside the American Embassy took her life. In addition there is a marker to the Medal of Honor awardee from the area. Interestingly, Pueblo boasts four MOH awardees and has a separate memorial elsewhere in the city. I may write more about that later.

Located at Elizabeth and 26th Streets the memorial also honors another of Pueblo's sons. A Marine killed in North Vietnam (presumably shot down) and buried in 1999 in Arlington. One makes the assumption that his remains were returned long after the war in the ongoing repatriation efforts between the US and Vietnam. Welcome home, brother.

This alone should be enough to say about this simple, yet elegant, memorial, but the story of how it came to be is, in my view, astonishing.

I often wonder why some memorials are placed where they are? Most seem to be on the grounds of, or near the Capitol, State House or some other government building. Once in a while however, they are in median strips far from the Capitol. Most of the time I am completely unsuccessful in tracking down the reasons for this, but in this case, the following story makes the answer obvious!

It seems a young man in Pueblo wanted to honor his buddies from 'Nam. No one took him too seriously. You see he was different. Some thought he might be handicapped. After all, he graduated from the local high school two years behind his peers. It took him three cycles to make it through boot camp! Many thought he might not be military material and certainly not Vietnam material.

Well, he ended up in 'Nam and literally slept with his M-16 every night while in-country. He, unlike many of his buddies, survived 'Nam. When he came home he was able to work at menial jobs, just like in 'Nam, but the nightmares and the memories and the fear eventually won out. He was finally designated as disabled with PTSD.

He began to work on building the memorial. He talked with many, raised money sitting outside a grocery store and over a period of time, years actually, managed to get it completed.

My long term readers know that I never use anyone's name in these posts. Too many legal issues, permissions etc, but I often direct you to another site with more info. I do so today. If you have never followed one of my suggested links before, I urge you to do so today. This story is compelling! There are lessons here too numerous to list about the human spirit and how we deal with each other as human beings and as brothers.

Please go to;

http://www.homeofheroes.com/brotherhood/delbert.html

to learn more about this most unlikely hero!

Next, I move on to Denver and discover a story that involves lost memorials, Irish writers and just some plain old luck. Join me on the 29th for this remarkable tale.

Tennessee VII

2011-07-19T09:00:00.002-04:00

I don't usually stray from my subject for two posts in a row, but as I was leaving Tennessee I noticed what seemed to be a huge disparity in the flora!

The first pics are of a prickly pear cactus usually associated with the southwest, New Mexico, Arizona, et al. So, I was very surprised to see this one, bigger than most, in Tennessee. I spend a lot of in the southwest and I promise, this is a big one!

Then, driving through the mountains I came across these beautiful views. The ice in the first looks as if it took years to build up and the trees in the second just glistened in the sun. I apologize for the poor quality of the pics themselves but Tennessee, when planning her roads, does not consider the needs of an itinerant photographer. No place to pull over and shoot. These are a real drive by.

One other interesting fact. I looked at the exif data on these pics and discovered that they were taken 21 minutes apart. Cactus to ice in 21 minutes!!

I should probably note that these were taken near the end of January, 2011.

Next, I am moving on to Colorado. There are a couple of really interesting stories there that go from Denver to Ireland and back. So, be sure to check in on the 24th to travel this beautiful state.

Tennessee VI

2011-07-14T09:00:00.001-04:00

As I was driving out of Whitwell I saw a small sign which read Children's Holocaust Museum with an arrow pointing to the right. I followed the signs and soon discovered Whitwell Middle School.

It seems that the school wanted to help students understand the sheer magnitude of the Holocaust. Taking the Norwegian symbol of resistance, the paperclip which was invented in Norway, the students decided to try to collect 11,000,000. One for each of those murdered by the Nazis. In one of the photos, you can see 11,000,000 of the over 30,000,000 clips collected by the students. These are on display inside the rail car. Also, the suitcase is filled with letters from German children apologizing to Anne Frank. In addition, as word spread about the project, documents and letters began to arrive at the school. Today, the school has designated a special library to the project which contains over 33,000 documents and letters received.

The box car was actually used to transport Jews and other prisoners to the camps. It was donated by German White House correspondents to the school when they learned of the project. The car was used for many things before and after the war including appearances in movies about the war.

Their story was made into an award winning documentary called Paper Clips which can be purchased from the school.

Here is a link to what Wikipedia has to say about the project.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paper_Clips_Project

And here is the Whitwell Middle School site;

www.whitwellmiddleschool.org/

I realize that this post is not about Vietnam, but I think that it is related because it is about people's desire for freedom and mankind's responsibilities to each other.

The next post will be the last from Tennessee and again not specifically about 'Nam, but I hope you will find it interesting, anyway.

Tennessee V

2011-07-09T09:00:00.003-04:00

While at breakfast with the guys from Soddy Daisy, one of them asked me if I had seen the memorial over in Dunlap? One of things I love about this journey is that this seems to happen on every trip! Someone tells me about a site I have never heard of before. Assured that Dunlap was only about 20 miles away, I set out to see what was there.

When I arrived all I could find was the beginnings of a Veteran's Memorial, still under construction. (top pic) I stopped at a local National Guard Amory and the good folks there assured me that what I had seen was in fact the new memorial, not yet completed. One of them said, "Have you seen the one in Whitwell?" "It's only about 20 miles from here!"

Somewhat amazed, I set out again and this time found this great park.

On my next post I will show some other pics from Tennessee that I think you might find interesting, too.

Tennessee lV

2011-07-04T09:00:00.004-04:00

I wanted to share a couple more photos from this great site in Soddy-Daisy. These brick structures welcome you to the site and commemorate our most recent wars back to WWII. (The large white wall in the back is WWI) The one for Vietnam lists the names of the 6 from the area who did not return. On top of this one there is a small statue of a kneeling soldier. I didn't notice at first but then saw that he is not a 'Nam vet. I asked about him and was told an interesting story.

He is a complete mystery!

No one knows where he came from. He just showed up one day about three years ago and has been here ever since. It is surprising that he has not disappeared as mysteriously as he arrived. Periodically, some one (still unknown) comes and moves him from one brick structure to another. Perhaps he, like the Huey, is guarding this memorial to the local lost heroes.

The eagle, one of two, watches all from above on this our nation's birthday and everyday! So, today, celebrate our independence and our freedom, but take a moment to remember these, here, and all those who have given so much. We are Americans by accident of birth and free because of the wisdom of our founders and the sacrifices of so many.

Tennessee III

2011-06-29T09:00:00.006-04:00

I had the great honor of being invited by the Soddy-Daisy Chapter of Vietnam Veteran's of America (Chap. 942) to join some of them for breakfast while in the town. I had a great time visiting this great group of guys and learning about their chapter and their memorial. My thanks to them all!

The memorial sits in a Veteran's Park in the town that has a number of other memorials in it including a very poignant one to 911.

The Huey that is the centerpiece of the 'Nam site dominates the scene. One could easily believe that it is protecting all the others from intrusion or harm, just as it must have done for so many while in country. She served in '66 and '67, was damaged on several occasions but never brought down. Later, she served as a trainer and in National Guard Units until retirement.

The first image is of the coin the chapter had made. When I admired it, they kindly gave me one. I carry it all the time. Thanks, guys!

This site has so many interesting components that I think it may take more than one post to do it justice. More in the next post. Remember, I post every 5 days at 9:00 am and also, remember that if you click on a picture, it will enlarge for easier viewing.

Tennessee II

2011-06-24T09:00:00.003-04:00

In Springfield, Tn. I found this memorial to the 13 from the area who perished in 'Nam. It is located on the grounds of the Robinson County Court House at 5th and Main streets.

I, also, found this link to a memorial site for Darrell Heatherly, the first man listed on this simple, yet elegant, granite memorial. It is a fitting tribute.

http://www.qsl.net/wd4ngb/heatherly.htm

Tennessee

2011-06-19T09:00:00.003-04:00

Leaving Kentucky, I drove south into Tennessee. The state memorial is located at the War Memorial Plaza in Nashville. I tracked the site down and took a few pics, but it was raining and I was not very happy with the photos. I decided to come back at night and try some illuminated shots. I returned around midnight, the rain had stopped, but it was bitter cold. I heard on the radio that it was one of the coldest nights ever in Nashville. As a result an organization was there passing out food and drink to the city's homeless population. The place was very busy. It was not a good time to take pictures and seemed somewhat inappropriate to do so. I left the city the next day as the weather was bad, once again.

About a week later, after going through other parts of Tennessee and Alabama, I returned and found a good, if cold, day and was able to get some shots.

The War Memorial Plaza is a rather small area and I found it very difficult to photograph the statue and the Wall together. I had seen pictures previously of the statue and the Wall separately and now I understand why this is necessary. The only way I could find to get the whole picture was from an elevated area outside the plaza and as you can see that presented the problem of the tree in plaza blocking the statue.

The War Memorial Plaza is located on Union Street at 7th at the Legislative Plaza. You can find parking in the area and the site contains other war memorials, as well. Within the Plaza is the Vietnam Veteran's Park which specifically honors the 1292 from Tennessee who made the final sacrifice.

Kentucky VII

2011-06-14T09:00:00.003-04:00

As mentioned in the last post, Franklin hosts two Vietnam memorials. This one is located in a park a few miles from the city square. I had read that there was a memorial in this town and did not feel as if the one on the square was it! I went into some stores and asked a few folks on the street, but no one was aware of a Vietnam memorial. I nearly gave up, but decided to check out the Police Department. No one there was sure, but one guy thought it might be in the park. He kindly drew me a map to the park area and to the local VFW. I went to the VFW but no one was there. I drove into the park just as the sun was setting and was doubtful about having time to locate and photograph the site.

Well, it got dark and I headed out of the park and just as I was leaving I noticed an American flag. I pulled over and at the base of the flag found this marker. There was no sign or anything marking it, so it was just luck that I stumbled upon it.

I found it very interesting that the plaque shown in the last photo had been included. Long time readers of this site know that on occasion those who design these memorials include something that addresses the controversy that surrounded the war. As I have said before, I think that these inclusions tell our story more completely. To see another example of this effort to tell the whole story, go to the list of states on the left of this page and "click" on Idaho.

Next, I will move on to Tennessee; Nashville, Springfield, Soddy-Daisy and Whitwell. Join me on June 19th.

Kentucky VI

2011-06-09T09:00:00.001-04:00

This memorial is located at the City Hall in Franklin, Ky. Not far from the Tennessee State line, Franklin has been named as one of the best small southern states in which to live.

This memorial, like in so many small towns, is one that honors sons and daughters of many wars. Those listed here, eight in all, may also be found on a separate Vietnam memorial located elsewhere in Franklin. I will write about that one in the next post.

This one can be found on the corner of Cedar and Main, on the Cedar Street side of the building. Individual bricks are found interspersed along the walkway.

Kentucky V

2011-06-04T09:00:00.002-04:00

In Paris, Kentucky, this monument and eternal flame will forever remember and honor those who served and those who paid the final price.

Eleven of Bourbon County's best are listed as among the lost, while hundreds of those who served with them flank their names. Perhaps they guard the memory of their brothers.

This elegant memorial is located at 3rd and Main in Paris.

Kentucky IV

2011-05-30T09:00:00.001-04:00

Seven more are honored at this site, at the Court House in Winchester, Kentucky. It was interesting to see all the flags and flowers. It was not Memorial Day or Veteran's Day. It just seems that the folks in Winchester remember.

Kentucky III

2011-05-25T09:00:00.002-04:00

To honor the seven from Montgomery County, Kentucky who made the ultimate sacrifice in 'Nam, this memorial proudly stands on the Court House lawn.

It was dedicated in November of 1984 and can be found on the corner of Court Street and Broadway.

Kentucky II

2011-05-20T09:00:00.002-04:00

Lexington is not far from Frankfort. I was pleased to find this nice memorial in Phoenix Park. A nomad (?) on a camel welcomes you to this lovely site. I was a little surprised to see him in Lexington, not to mention in the snow!

Located on the corner of Limestone and West main the site was a little hard to see from the street as it faces inwards. In addition to listing the names of 50 fallen soldiers from Lexington and Lafayette Counties, it also bears an interesting thought.

"If all men were just, there would be no need for Valor "

Kentucky

2011-05-15T09:00:00.006-04:00

As you may well imagine, in the last couple of years, I have been to hundreds of memorial sites. I love them all. Each carries its own special significance for those honored, their family's, friends and loved ones. In addition each provides healing for a community that not only suffered through the war, but lost its sons and daughters, Mothers, Fathers, brothers and sisters, too.

It is probably not too surprising that these memorial sites can be similar. I, generally, refer to them as some version of the Wall, an LZ, or a group of comrades either on patrol or helping a fallen brother.

So, it was with the the greatest anticipation that I set out to see the memorial in Frankfort, Kentucky. I had read that this site was different and I wanted to be there.

Dedicated in 1988 and overlooked by the State Capitol building, the site consists of a large sundial. The names of the lost are placed so that on the anniversary of their death, the shadow cast by the gnomon (say; noman) touches their name. This creates an individual Memorial Day, each year, for each of the 1103 fallen. Around the perimeter are verses from Ecclesiastes. Many of us will remember The Byrds singing them in Turn, Turn, Turn and they seem beautifully fitting here, also.

So, with all this anticipation, you might well imagine my disappointment when I arrived and found the memorial covered with snow! It was cold, gray, wet and impossible to get good photos. Somewhat crestfallen, I left.

Later, after traveling to Tennessee and Georgia, I determined to return. On this particular day, it was still gray and cold, but the snow had melted so I was finally able to get photos. I am so glad that I returned. It is a strikingly beautiful site. Not only did I get to visit the site, I found the POW/MIA marker further up the hill, under a tree. I, also, saw the MIA's listed at the base of the gnomon, where the shadow will never touch them.

I wondered what happens when an MIA is recovered. I was able to have a nice conversation with the man who designed and built the memorial. He told me that if an MIA is recovered or declared dead, the date of the declaration or recovery is added next to the name. That is why in the photo of those names, only some have a date. On the plaza where all the other names are listed, the first name (1962) and the last name (1975) have had the dates of their loss included, defining the war for Kentucky. Another interesting feature; the stone upon which the MIA names are listed has been finished on both sides. So, when all MIAs have been accounted for, the stone can be turned over, no longer to mourn those lost and unfound.

The designer/Architect added a lot of info on Wikipedia. It explains some of the Geometry and how it all works and you can find it here;

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kentucky_Vietnam_Veterans_Memorial

The official site of the memorial is here;

http://www.kyvietnammemorial.net/index.html

The memorial is located on Coffee Tree Road at Vernon Cooper Lane. It is located near the Kentucky Library and Archives building. There are a number of signs on the road marking the site.

Names added to The Wall

2011-05-10T09:00:00.003-04:00

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Adds 5

WASHINGTON (AP) - The names of five U.S. soldiers are being added to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington.

A ceremony will be held Sunday morning to honor Army Spec. Charles Sabatier of Galveston, Texas, whose name is being added. He was wounded in the Tet Offensive in 1968 when a bullet pierced his spinal column and left him paralyzed. He died in 2009 as a result of his condition.

The names of four other service members will be added over the next week.

They are: Army Spec. Charles Vest of Lynchburg, Ohio, who remained in a coma for years before he died; Army Sgt. Henry Aderholt of Birmingham, Ala.; Richard Daniels of Washougal, Wash., who served in the Navy; and Peter Holcomb of Grandy, Minn.

Alaska V

2011-04-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

North of Anchorage, about halfway to Denali and Mt McKinley is the Alaska War Memorial. Built in1983, it honors all of Alaska's Vets. The memorial consists of 5 large walls, one for each of the services. A Merchant Marine stone was added at a later time. There are no names or specific wars highlighted. This seems to be in keeping with what I was told about the states effort not to single out any service or war. I saw it first in 1989 when I visited. Since then a number of plaques have been added around it. These include several Medal of Honor awardees from Vietnam.

It was raining when I visited this time, as it did nearly every day, so I could not see Mt. McKinley which is only a short distance (by Alaskan standards) away.

The guy at the top just seemed so fitting for this post that I couldn't resist giving him top billing! I got him out near the Portage Glacier.

These were the only sites I was able to find, or get to, on this trip. As usual, if any of you know of any 'Nam sites, I would dearly love to hear about them. As always, you can reach me either by "comment" or by using the email listed on the left side of the page.

Alaska IV

2011-04-25T09:00:00.000-04:00

In a past post, I whined a bit about how Alaska does not have a specific Vietnam memorial. They have done something that is unique, I believe!

While, again, it is not specific to Vietnam, the state did name a previously unnamed mountain as Mt. POW-MIA.

From the Wall of Honor, at the Matsu Visitor's Center, you can look directly at it. As I said in the last post the series of walls seem to form an arrow head pointing right at it. Hazel told me that, as far as she knew, this had not been planned, but agreed that it seemed to be so!

My brother and I seriously discussed renting a chopper (or something) and flying over to get better pics, but as you can see from the photos, the weather would just not co-operate. It was cloudy and wet the whole time we were there.

A Vietnam vet, a marine, climbed the mountain and planted the POW/MIA flag at the summit.

The plaque in the first picture is at the Matsu visitors Center near the memorial.

You can find more about this story and pics of him planting the flag, here;

http://www.vnvmc-ak.com/PhotoPages/MTPOWMIA.htm

Alaska III

2011-04-20T09:00:00.002-04:00

On the south side of Wasilla, heading back towards Anchorage, we found this memorial at the Matsu Visitors Center. I noticed on another site that the Center is technically located in Palmer, Alaska. However, it is hard to miss as you travel from Anchorage towards Wasilla.

Called the Wall Of Honor, it lists the names of vets from a variety of operations. It includes many from Vietnam. In fact, any vet who served honorably can have his name included on one of the walls.

The first set of six panels on the first and largest of the wall is complete, but there is still quite a bit of room for additions

Each year memorial services are held on Veteran's Day and Memorial Day. Names are added periodically, too.

As I stood looking at the walls and reading names, it occurred to me that the shape of the walls resembled an arrow head. It seems to be pointing at Mt. POW-MIA directly behind the wall in the not to far distance. I will post more about the Mountain in my next post.

As stated above, this memorial is open to any service person who served Honorably. It does not matter in which war or where you are from. In fact, someone has added Audie Murphy to this site. If anyone would like to have a name included on this memorial applications may be gotten from;

Hazel Schwulst
2076 South Grand Birch
Wasilla, Alaska, 99654

There is a $50.00 fee for the sand blasting process and helps with upkeep of the site.

I spoke with Hazel and she told me that volunteers care for the site, replace flags as necessary and that she makes the stencils for newly added names, herself. Flags have to be replace fairly often as the wind blows constantly at the site. Whenever possible, they will place relatives next to each other and that they have several fathers and sons together on the wall.

If you get to Alaska, this site is well worth a visit. Wasilla is only about 40 miles north of Anchorage.

The next post, April 25, will be about Mt. POW-MIA; a unique and interesting story!

Alaska II

2011-04-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

North of Anchorage, about 40 miles, is Wasilla. It has two vet memorial sites. Neither is specifically Vietnam, but we are included at both sites.

On the northern side of the city we found this nice little park. The park, itself, is dedicated to all vets but many of the pavers surrounding the central point are dedicated to Vietnam vets.

It sits on the corner of Lucille Street and Nelson Ave and is an inviting, peaceful place to spend a little time.

Alaska

2011-04-10T09:00:00.004-04:00

I don't usually post scenery pics but I just couldn't resist this one from just outside Anchorage. Talk about "...Purple Mountain Majesties"!! This might be a good place to remind you that if you "click" on a picture it will enlarge for a better view!

I traveled in Alaska in the late 80's and found a 139 foot, Sitka Spruce flagpole dedicated to Vietnam Veterans. It was on what is called the Park Strip in Anchorage. This area was, at the time of the founding of Anchorage, an area that was used as a park, a golf course and a little later a landing strip for airplanes.

When I returned, all these years later, I found that the flagpole had been replaced with another Sitka Spruce and the area had been altered to become a multi-war site. In an ensuing conversation with a member of the Vietnam Veteran's Motorcycle Club, I discovered that the club had added the names of the 57 Alaskans lost in 'Nam to the site and the State objected! I was astounded by this as he explained that they had been told that their memorial would have to be removed! Well, they went to court and won a partial victory. The plaques bearing the names could stay, but the site would have to be opened to other groups who might want to put something there. So, now, there are several other placements there.

At first, I was pretty angry about this, but my contact told me that this was not an anti Vietnam Vet or memorial stand by the State, but rather that the military plays such a huge role in the life of the State that it does not want to single out any war, or group, as being more deserving of respect than another. While this explanation calmed me a little, I would think that a State that has all that oil money (every citizens gets thousands of dollars in payment, every year) could afford to honor its war dead, but that's just me!

The site now bears the two 'Nam plaques placed by the Vietnam Veterans Motorcycle Club and several others honoring other vets. The statue of the soldier looks, to me, like a WWII vet, but the quote about what vets see I have most often seen in conjunction with Vietnam sites. I could well be wrong about this and if you know, please feel free to let me know.

Wisconsin XII

2011-04-05T09:00:00.002-04:00

My last stop in Wisconsin before returning to Milwaukee was Madison. You may recall that the Capitol was one of the major "hotbeds" of anti war activity at the time. I wondered what I might find here.

As I talked to a number of local people, I discovered that the weekend before my arrival, VVA had set up thousands of headstones in the city park to commemorate Memorial Day. I was sorry to have missed it, I think those pics might have been particularly haunting!

I did find this veterans park in patriot themed development. All the street names were something right out of our history, as seen on the park sign.

You can find more information about it here;

http://www.cityofmadison.com/parks/parks/park.cfm?id=1364

Wisconxin XI

2011-03-31T09:00:00.001-04:00

The town of Sparta Wisconsin offers this simple, yet elegant tribute.

In a small park located at W. Montgomery Street and N. Spring St, amid the play equipment and other older memorials stands this one. I especially like the engraving of the helmet with "short" inked in on the band. How many of us did that?

Next, it is on to my final stop in Wisconsin; the state capitol in Madison, then back to Milwaukee and home.

Wisconsin X

2011-03-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

In Delafield, I came across this beautiful memorial park. It is dedicated to all who served and is a reminder to all of the sacrifices made by vets of all generations.

You can enter the site from a couple of different entrances. I happened to park at the Post Office and entered at the first marker. There is, however, what appears to be a main entrance that is marked with the sign and pavers shown below. I did not discover this entrance until on my way back through the park. From it you can go in either direction to visit specific spots.

There are a number of markers along the walk and the ones show here are for Vietnam. The pavers honor and memorialize specific fallen heroes. If you would like to do so, contact the site here;

http://www.cityofdelafield.com/documents/BrickOrderform.pdf

The park is located at;

400 Main Street
Delafield, WI 53018

You can find some of the original plans for the Vietnam site here;

http://www.cityofdelafield.com/documents/Vietnam.pdf

Welcome Home Vietnam Veteran's Day

2011-03-21T09:00:00.003-04:00

The Senate has declared that March 30th will be Vietnam Veteran's Welcome Home Day. Below is a copy of the resolution. In addition, Montgomery County, Maryland (for all you local readers) is having a Welcome Home activity at the new Veteran's Plaza in Silver Spring. I have enclosed a URL at the bottom of the page with more information on this local event and some pictures I took at the plaza recently. They had a display of Native American patriotic art the day I was there.

"Washington D.C - The U.S. Senate on March 8 declared March 30th
as "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day," agreeing unanimously to a
resolution introduced by Senator Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Ranking Member
of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

On March 30, 1973, all U.S. troops withdrew from Vietnam under
the terms of the Treaty of Paris. This March 30th, the Senate has
encouraged Americans across the country to recognize Vietnam veterans
for their sacrifice and demonstrate a warm welcome to these soldiers who
returned from war to a politically divided country.

"I'm pleased that the Senate has agreed to set aside a day to
give our Vietnam veterans a warm, long-overdue welcome home. I strongly
encourage communities throughout North Carolina and across the country
to observe this day with activities and events that honor these veterans
for their service. It's time they receive the recognition they have
earned and deserve. This day also provides our nation with an important
teaching moment. Never again should our men and women serving in the
armed forces receive the same treatment as those returning from
Vietnam," said Senator Richard Burr.

Senator Burr introduced the resolution for the second consecutive year on February 16, 2011 ..

The United States became involved in Vietnam because
policy-makers believed that if South Vietnam fell to a communist
government, communism would spread throughout the rest of Southeast
Asia. The US Armed Forces began serving in an advisory role to the South
Vietnamese in 1961, and in 1965, ground combat troops were sent into
Vietnam. On March 30, 1973, after many years of combat, all US troops
withdrew. More than 58,000 members of the United States Armed Forces
lost their lives and more than 300,000 were wounded in Vietnam."

Here is the URL to the Montgomery County Maryland event;

http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/hhs/ads/VA/PDFs/whvietnamvetsmarch30.pdf

The Veteran's plaza is located on the corner of Ellsworth and Fenton Streets in downtown Silver Spring. As the flier says, "the more the merrier"

Wisconsin I X

2011-03-16T09:00:00.002-04:00

As I drove out of Sheboygan, I happened across this all vets memorial. I thought it was quite beautiful and a little different so, I took a few shots of it.

It has a number of "Walls" with names of the lost, from various wars, etched upon them. I was there not long after Memorial Day and was pleased to find the roses placed at the markers. Each rose was dedicated to a specific individual. I was touched by that.

The back of the large wall, with the name of the site on it, is covered with names of those who served in our nation's conflicts, while only those who were lost are listed on the smaller black walls.

I have been unable to find much info on the site so, I will ask you all again. If you know anything, please contact meat 50statememorials@gmail.com

Wisconsin VIII

2011-03-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

While driving through Wisconsin, I came upon a most unusual site.

Many still are unaware of the Secret War fought by the U.S. and her allies during what is called the Vietnam conflict. In an effort to stem the tide of soldiers, supplies and what have you through other, neighboring countries, the U. S waged war in them. This was denied for many years and the efforts of the people of these countries is little recognized, even today.

Among the most valiant of our allies were the Lao and Hmong peoples of Laos. Thousands of these refugees came to America following the war. They settled in Wisconsin (and Minnesota) in great numbers.

Sheboygan was one of the first to welcome them and after a time it was decided to build a memorial to those who perished in this Secret War. Thousands and thousands of Hmong fighters were lost and as their population was estimated to be only around 250,000 total, these were terrible losses to the people.

The site of this beautiful and unique site is Deland Park, on the shores of the Lake Michigan in Sheboygan. It consists of a circular wall that on the inside lists the names of the members of the Secret Guerrilla Units (SGU's) and panels that tell the story of this noble effort. The outside consists of a number of mosaic panels which as far as I can tell are representative of the fine needlework that the Hmong are famous for, that tell their story in a more traditional way. The pattern in the center of the memorial was added later and is based upon these same art works.

You can see the official site for more information, here;

http://www.laohmongusmemorial.com/

Wisconsin VII

2011-03-06T09:00:00.002-05:00

Here are a few more pics from this marvelous site. In addition to these the site honors Korean War, WWII, the Iraqi and Afghanistan vets and others. There is also a replica of the Liberty Bell which is often rung for those remembered or as part of ceremonies.

The pics are of the sunset on the native American Memorial I wrote about earlier.

The sculpture is seven Peace Doves (recalling those released at the funeral of a fallen hero) rising from the Meditation Garden and is one of several "rooms" that one may visit and reflect. These include a "Family room, a place for prayer, a fountain of tears and a picnic shelter."

The final pic from The Highground is of the Wisconsin map created by the donations from every county in the state.

There is, also, a new education center that has a variety of programs that rotate through. Currently, there is an exhibit of photos taken by Robert Ellison a civilian photog killed in"Nam when the plane he was riding on with a group of 49 Marines crashed after receiving ground fire; all were lost.

I hope that you all will someday have the opportunity to visit this exceptional place of peace, love and remembrance. I promise you will not regret it.

Once again, here is their contact info.

The Highground
W7031 Ridge road
Neillsville, WI 54456

highgrnd@tds.net

Or their website

www.thehighground.org

There are many ways in which any individual can help support this most noble and worthy place.

Wisconsin VI

2011-03-01T09:00:00.001-05:00

Another of the very first sites I ever saw was in Milwaukee. It was at least 20 years ago and those pictures are long since lost. Too bad, because the present site is not just as I remember and I wonder if it has grown or if my memory just isn't accurate?

Anyway, the site here, The Southeastern Wisconsin Vietnam Veteran's Memorial, sits right on the lake and is in a Veteran's Park. It is dedicated to the 1241 who were lost and the site is well marked. It consists of three Wausau Red Granite columns. There are 22, 26, and 30 feet tall and represent the fallen, POW/MIA's and those who made it back. Each of the five surrounding benches represents one of the services and the eleven granite posts are for the recognized span of the war.

There is an inner circle of bricks that are reserved for 'Nam vets and an outer circle which may be dedicated to those of other conflicts or anyone who would like to show respect and support. In addition, there are markers for Medal of Honor awardees and those who were POW/MIA. The MIA bricks are marked with a star if and when the remains are ever recovered.

For additional info about how to dedicate a brick, go here;

http://www.warmemorialcenter.org/Visitors_Guide/Memorials/index.html

I, also, found this interesting video from just this past May, about the memorial and vets efforts to ensure that it remains inviting and respectful.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlIxjcgPkw0

Wisconsin V

2011-02-24T09:00:00.000-05:00

Located, also, in the sacred spot is the National Native American Vietnam Veteran's Memorial.

Left out of the memorial in D. C., Native Americans decided to build their own memorial. Interestingly, this mirrors what 'Nam vets had to do, too.

The site consists of an American Indian soldier in fatigues, holding a rifle in one hand and an Eagle feather staff in the other. He, also, wears a headband; an iconic symbol to most of us.

He is standing on ten tons of red granite, symbolizing shed blood. At the base is a circle of white stones depicting a field of honor.

The names of all the American Indian who perished as a result of the war are etched into black granite that encircles the entire site. Inscribing the Tribal affiliation of each name is a project that will be completed in the future.

The information available at the site says that the land chose the place for the memorial. I didn't quite understand this so I called and spoke to another of the great staff at this site and he explained that when some of the Native American planning team visited The Highground, the land "spoke to them" and they knew this was where they wanted their memorial.

So, today its majesty and dignity greet all who come to remember. And this is most fitting because, as a cultural group, Native Americans have a greater rate of service than anyone in America!

Wisconsin IV

2011-02-19T09:00:00.000-05:00

I promised to talk about the key-chains seen in some of these pictures. You can see them on the rifle in Fragments and in the helmet the woman is holding in the last post.

These are made by a disabled 'Nam vet who lives in Oregon. He makes them for those who were in-country. These have always been free, but, as he says, they were not cheap. They were paid for with the lives, blood and suffering in the jungles of 'Nam

Dave has made thousands of these and reports say that they have made it to all 50 states and a number of spots around the world. Their purpose is to honor those who were lost and he hopes that all who carry them will hold their heads high and know that they are not alone.

Now, here is the catch. The only way you can get one is to have served in-country and to pick one up at The High Ground. One of the first things they ask is if you are a vet and were in-country. If so, they hand you a key-chain.

I carry mine every day with great pride.

So, get out to Neillsville and see this great site, more about which I will write soon.

Wisconsin III

2011-02-14T09:00:00.001-05:00

Another feature at the Highground is the first veteran's memorial specifically honoring the women who served.

The statue, near the flags poles, was the model for a submission for the memorial on the Mall, in Washington, D. C. If it had been chosen, it would have been life sized and on the Mall. Now, she has a place of honor at the Highground.

There are other women here, too.

There is a WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) The statue is by Dorothy Swain Lewis, who was a WASP. I noted in a previous post that it was many years after their noble service that these brave women were finally recognized by the Government (1977). It was just last March (2010) that they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. A long way from having to pass the hat to collect the money to send home their 38 sisters, who perished in service!

Another woman is here, too. She sits, with her child, mourning the loss of her husband, her child's father. While the particular site is not a Vietnam Tribute, the loss and message are larger than any one conflict.

Wisconsin II

2011-02-09T09:00:00.003-05:00

If you look over to the right and down from "Fragments" you will see a most unusual sight.

Often missed by visitors, The Earthen Dove Effigy Mound measures 100 feet long, with a 140 foot wingspan, and is 6 1/2 feet high at its peak. Dedicated to POW/MIA's it was constructed with earth from all of Wisconsin's 72 counties, many states, Vietnam and 18 countries.

Its origins can be traced to the Native American Mound tradition. At its dedication in 1989, John Beaudin, a native American Vietnam War vet explained;

"It is a spiritual place where you can go and let your mother, the earth, hold you. Let the children play on it. Dance on it. Use it to unload your grief and pain. Lay back in the soft folds of its wings and let Mother Earth unburden you. Then get up and leave your troubles and cares there on the mound, as you walk away renewed, refreshed, and strengthened"

In 1992 a vet came to see the park. He visited the mound, lit incense and thought about his brother who has never been found. He felt a new sense of peace. He met with some other vets and three years later the Vietnamese/American Peace park was dedicated in his country; we used to call it North Vietnam. Located 60 miles north of Hanoi this park commemorates the sacrifices of war.

You can read more about this park, here;

www.mylaipeacepark.org/peacepark.va.lasso

This URL takes you to a story about how an attempt was made to build the Peace park near Hanoi, but that it ended up in Mylai. Other sites I have seen say that the one in Hanoi was built, still others say that it is still being worked on. If I find information that settles this I will post it. If you know anything about it I would love to know. You can reach me via the email address at the left.

The Highground flies the American flag and the POW/MIA flag at all times in honor of the lost and missing that we might Never Forget.

Arizona

2011-02-06T14:13:00.003-05:00

I don't usually interrupt the flow of my posts but, today I must make an exception. I am in Tucson, Az. and they are experiencing the coldest temperatures EVER recorded. It has been in the 'teens several evenings in a row. If you have been following the news you know that they are having terrible problems supplying natural gas to peoples homes. As a result, water lines are freezing and bursting all over creating havoc for many. People have been falling on the ice outside our hotel. It took a little bit for the hotel to get salt and barricades out to help. I guess this is just something they are not used to dealing with out here in the desert!

I came across these statues outside the Palomino Mall at Swan and Fort Lowell and couldn't resist getting the pics. I drove by two days later, the temp was in the 60's and there was still a little ice on a couple of them.

Anyway, enjoy. The memorial posts will continue on the regular five day schedule.

Wisconsin

2011-02-04T09:00:00.001-05:00

This memorial began with a promise to a dying friend. In 1965, in the fields of Vietnam, Tom Miller made a vow to his dying friend; that his death would never be forgotten. In 1984, Miller and others began the actual work of planning, site selection, fund raising and all the necessary work to make this promise, a reality. By 1986 the first permanent fixture was in place and the work has been ongoing ever since.

It is hard for me to know where to begin when writing about Wisconsin's memorial. Located in Neillsville, it brings to mind Bob Seger's line about "what to leave in and what to leave out" There is just so much! I will try to do this magnificent site justice, but I fear my abilities will be found lacking.

One thing to mention is that those who operate the site point out that this is a Veteran's Memorial, not a war memorial. I have been struck as I travel to so many sites how often this the case.

I first visited the site in the evening, really too late to take any decent pictures. I just walked around and took the place in as well as I could. Even in the evening people were coming in, in ones and twos, to walk the silent grounds. To remember, to heal, to just visit.

There is a nice visitors center on site which was closed too, but I later found out that it was built by vets, for vets. I decided that I would return the next day to check this remarkable, visionary, dare I say, sacred, spot out more completely. It was a decision that turned out to be one of the best I have made on these journeys.

The next day, the sky was clear and blue and the memorial was even more enthralling. What I expected to be a visit of an hour or so turned into one that lasted much of the day. The people here welcomed me with open arms and when they discovered what I was trying to do, they could not have been more helpful. My main contact was named Joyce and she just bent over backwards to see that I had what I wanted to do this place justice. Thank you, again, Joyce!

After some conversation, she insisted that I take the self guided tour of the site. This is not something I always have the time (or patience) to do. She was 100% correct! The info provided on the tour was great. If you get to this site, take the time. You won't regret it!

One of the primary things you learn is that the area is called The High Ground, not surprisingly because it is! The site was not chosen because of this, but, vets noticed it right away and the name has stuck. It sits on 140 acres of beautiful Wisconsin land and the site was chosen because it sits in the geographical center of the state. Anyone in the state can drive to, visit and return home in one day. This was one of the primary goals of the planners; that all be able to visit without extraordinary expense. Joyce told me that the local motel which has some other name now answers its phones "The High Ground", so it has become the norm.

Read the plaque (pic 3) as it explains far better than I can the significance of the components of the statue, Fragments. Also, this is the first memorial to feature a woman, look closely at the statue and you can see that the poncho wearing figure is in fact a woman and from her poncho hang the bronze rods naming each of those lost. This is her burden.

Remember, if you 'click" on a picture, it will enlarge in a new window!

Note in the final picture the wristbands and beaded key chains etc that visitors have left on the statue. More about the key chains, later.

Also, note the inverted rifle (pics 2 and 5). This was a sign that a medivac was needed.

I will spend the next couple of posts here at The High Ground. There is much to tell, before moving on to some more beautiful and unusual sites in Wisconsin.

Here is specific contact information;

The Highground

W7031 Ridge Road

Neillsville, WI 54456

Phone: (715) 743 - 4224

www.thehighground.org/

Vermont V

2011-01-27T09:00:00.002-05:00

We found this park in Waterbury.

In a small park we found memorials to several wars including Vietnam. Built in 2000, this memorial lists all who served. KIAs and MIAs are designated by stars. There are 238 listed as having served. One MIA is honored here.

We met a lady who runs a mobile Hot Dog stand. She told us that she had been working this spot in the park for 18 years! She, also, told us that the Garden Club used to care for the site and worked diligently to keep it beautiful and fully in bloom, in season. She was a little unhappy that someone else had taken over the responsibility and was not keeping it up to previous standards. She explained that some of the flowers formed a large red star at one time. You can still see the red flowers but there is little sign that they ever formed a star.

Vermont IV

2011-01-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

The memorial in Rutland was born from one man's depression and another's determination to see the project through.

Vet John Reno, like so many of us, had struggled with his memories, flashbacks and depression. He chose to work through these by pursuing his artistic vision. In 1981 he decided to work through his anger, to work off his pain. He began working on an abandoned piece of marble from an old plant. This would be his way out.

A tragic accident in 1982 ended his dream along with his life and the marble was forgotten. Then in 1995 John Bergeron, another Vietnam vet, went hunting for, and found the art work. This, then became the focal point of the Rutland Memorial. A local artist, Don Ramey, completed the piece as a tribute to all vets.

Described by some as a Frozen Soldier, it is Located in a median strip park it is not hard to locate on S. Main St., Rutland, VT

Directions:: South side of downtown. West side of US Hwy 7/4, between Washington St. and Killington Ave.

Sponsored by VVA, chapter 1, Rutland and was made possible by many contributions from individuals and businesses, it was dedicated on Memorial Day, 2000.

Vermont III

2011-01-17T09:00:00.001-05:00

Driving the beautiful back roads of Vermont, one happens across many small towns. It is unusual to not find some kind of remembrance to local sons and daughters who served or were lost in our nation's wars.

This one in South Royalton lists the names of those who served in various wars. There is no explanation of the symbols, but one assumes that the star next to a name indicates they were lost. Thankfully, none of the 79 men and women listed here have the star that many of their brothers and sisters from other conflicts bear next to their names.

Vermont II

2011-01-12T09:00:00.000-05:00

Located near by is this memorial to all from Sharon. In a small park, it sits in quite remembrance of generations of Americans who have given their all, for whatever the cause.

Vermont

2011-01-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

The story of the memorial for the state of Vermont has some unusual twists and turns in the telling.

Thought by many to be the first State sponsored site it nearly was lost forever. Built at a rest area on Interstate 89, Vietnam Veteran's memorial Highway, about 138 miles from the Canadian border. The site struck a nerve as 138 of Vermont's citizens were lost in the war. Their names are listed on the granite monument on site. The area is also reminiscent of Vietnam's highlands and felt familiar to many. Interstate 89 is also the road to the Veteran's Hospital in White river Junction and was often traveled by vets and their families.

The site was dedicated two weeks before the Wall in D. C. and by the mid 90's the facilities were failing. The Sharon rest area, and others, were slated for closure. The memorial would be lost.

Vietnam Veterans of America, Vermont Chapter, vets, and many others fought to keep the site open. The government listened and pledged to keep the memorial open. Working with the vets a new center was designed and built, and opened in 2005. A unique feature of the new site is its geothermal heating and cooling system. Visitors can walk through this "Living Machine" and see it at work and admire the many beautiful and exotic plants that flourish inside the greenhouse structure. The last photo is from the inside of the "Living Machine"

Inside the new visitors center one can view many photos from 'Nam, see the names of all who served (7,236) and visit a small museum of artifacts gathered over time. A triple time-line listing National, Vermont, and War events helps tell the story.

Described as a place "To Grieve, To Honor and To Learn" the center is a magnificent tribute to those who served.

Gold Star Mother Louise Ransom said the following at the initial dedication on October 30, 1982

"We will remember how they
looked the last time we saw them.
We will remember also the weddings never attended,
the houses never built,
the children never born,
the fields never plowed,
books never written
and the songs never sung."

Another element I liked was the white marble blocks set into the wall. There are 138 and are used for candles during ceremonies or left by family and friends. You can see them in the second and third pictures.

Iowa VIII

2011-01-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

My final stop in Iowa was in Council Bluffs. The memorial here is in Bayless Park and is one of a number at this Veteran's Plaza site. Backed by a beautiful fountain, the memorial consists of a statue of a fatigue clad soldier on a pedestal. Perhaps he is standing guard over the 30 lost sons of Pottawatamie County whose names are forever inscribed on two sides of the pedestal and again on the wall running behind him. This wall commemorates a number of wars and features life sized statues of mourners along the walk.

The park is located at the corner of Pearl and First Streets in Council Bluffs and is well worth a visit should you ever have the opportunity.

Great cars in Iowa

2010-12-28T12:34:00.000-05:00

I hope every one had a great holiday and in keeping with my "Holiday break" I thought I would post these pics of a small car show I happened on to while in Waterloo, Iowa.

This seemed to be simply a group of enthusiast meeting in the parking lot of a local building. There was no competition, or paid admissions , or any stuff for sale. Just the enjoyment of these classic cars.

Enjoy, I'll be back with more memorials the first of the new year!

Nebraska

2010-12-23T09:00:00.003-05:00

Something a little different today.

As it is the holiday season, and for me that means trains under the tree, I thought I would post these pics of these engines. They welcome you into Nebraska. As I was leaving Council Bluffs I could not help but stop and see these.

These are among the largest engines ever built. They commemorate the joining of the east and west by the railroads and they are located in a park dedicated to John Cooper Kenefick, a long time leader of Union pacific. I had only been vaguely aware that the westward movement of this famous story of the race from San Francisco to Ogden, Utah began in Omaha.

So, for all you train fans out there, enjoy and Happy Holidays!

I'll write about Nebraska Vietnam Memorial sites in the near future

The Virtual Wall

2010-12-23T01:50:00.004-05:00

I am humbled and very proud to announce the this site, A Means To Heal, has been added to the "Healing" section of The Virtual Wall project. I will, shortly be reciprocating and adding a few other links to this site, so that you can check them out, also. Watch for them in the very near future.

If for some reason you have not seen the Virtual Wall site and would like to check it out, go here;

http://www.virtualwall.org/linksvw.htm#healing

Iowa VII

2010-12-18T09:00:00.002-05:00

My friend at the Iowa Veteran's Cemetery directed me to Parkersburg, Iowa. A brand new veteran's memorial was dedicated just this past Memorial Day. While it is not specifically a Vietnam site, the names of those who served in "Nam take up several panels on the stone fixtures. The site attempts to list all veterans who ever served from the area. They are not listed in chronological order to allow for late additions. You will note that several names of Vietnam vets were added to the back of one of the markers.

The site includes a chopper that looks very 'Nam like to me. It had to be moved slightly from its original site and is tilted due to a tornado that came through.

It is located on the corner of Miners and Colfax Streets adjacent to the Parkersburg Veteran's memorial building and the Oak Hill Cemetery.

The next post is Council Bluffs, a name that just rings with history!

Iowa VI

2010-12-13T09:00:00.003-05:00

Heading for Des Moines, to the Capitol grounds, I happened to see the sign for the Iowa Veteran's Cemetery. I figured I'd take a chance and see if there was anything there.

As luck would have it, I found this marker. For reasons still unclear to me, I wandered into the administration building at the site. There I met this really great person. She spent at least an hour with me talking about my project and about what they do at this site.

While I was there a woman came in wanting to know how to make arrangements to have her late husbands ashes interred at the site. My new friend explained that the Cemetery had no rules regarding what kind of a container was placed inside what they call "The Wall". Only that it would fit and that one should consider if they, too, would like to join their loved one later and to allow for that when choosing the vessel. She said that she had seen jewelry boxes, vases and even a Harley-Davidson gas tank used as containers. We both got a smile out of that as we had just been talking about bikes and Patriot Guard.

She directed me to another site that I had never heard of before. So, twice in one day I had discovered sites previously unknown. I have learned, now, to try to leave some time open on each trip just for such lucky occurrences.

The new site is the newly dedicated Veteran's Park in Parkersburg and it will be my next post.