American Veterans Traveling Tribute Comes To A Small Town

A few weekends ago, The Wall (American Veterans Traveling Tribute) came to our tiny town. Considering that it costs $10,000 for The Wall to be displayed for a few days, we feel proud that we were able to host this incredible testament to why our country remains free.

To watch grown men break down and sob after finding the name of a fallen comrade on the wall is very humbling. I saw men standing at attention, saluting the wall, struggling for composure. How can you not be affected?

The Traveling Wall is a 80% replica of the Vietnam Wall in Washington, DC. We were able to find the name of my husband's cousin, who was killed in action. We took pencil rubbings and photographs of his name. Alongside the wall, there were also several stands with plaques bearing the names of the men and women that have been killed in Iraq. I found the name of a boy that was killed last year defending our freedom. I brushed the dust from his name plaque, took some photos to send to his brother and said a silent "Thank You" to this young man, who gave his life for our country.

"Soldier's Cross" memorials were scattered throughout the displays. A rickety cage with a MIA/POW flag hanging inside reminded us that there are some who have never come home, dead or alive.

If the American Veterans Traveling Tribute comes to a city or town near you, I highly recommend going to see it. Your heart will never be the same.