Ohio II

This magnificent memorial site is often referred to as the Ohio Vietnam Memorial and I believe it serves as such. However, it is actually a joint effort by vets, citizens, and private companies. In fact, the state of Ohio is not involved at all.

Far from complete, the are plans for a reflecting pond, helicopter placements, a Blue Star Mother Statue, a heroes wall, a visitor's center and much much more.

For more info;

http://www.ovmp.org

I think the pictures need no explanation or further comment, especially if you have read the previous post, except to say that the Gold Star Mother statue was dedicated to Sharon Lane and her mother was on hand to assist in the ceremony. Sharon lane is considered the only woman actually killed in direct combat in 'Nam. There is a VVA chapter dedicated to her and other memorials in Ohio. She is one of the eight women listed on the Wall in D.C. and among the 67 women lost mentioned in a previous post.

Another interesting fact is that Beallsville, Ohio (pop. 475) gained unwanted national attention between 1966 and 1971 by having suffered the largest per-capita loss of life in the Vietnam War. Six young men lost their lives in the war, a terrible and profound loss for this small town.

If you would like to know more about Patriot Guard, a group of vets who protect soldiers funerals from protesters, go here;

http://www.patriotguard.org/Home/tabid/53/Default.aspx