Here & There Column 5-11-10

Part of "The Wall That Heals"

Visit "The Wall That Heals"

A half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial "The Wall That Heals" will be on display from Thursday May 13 through Sunday, May 16 at the Museum at Bethel Woods.
On Veteran's Day 1996, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund unveiled this replica in Washington, DC and it has traveled to communities throughout the United States.
Jan Scruggs, founder and president of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund explained, "in 1969, while many Americans were enjoying the music at Woodstock, I was serving in Vietnam. Those were the two big influences on our generation, reflecting the choices we made as young people coming of age in America. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial was created to bring the disparate section of our population together, so it is fitting that "The Wall That Heals is coming to the site of the Woodstock festival."
This solemn exhibition will feature the dramatic replica, stretching nearly 250 feet in total length, as well as an Information Center and traveling museum, which provides a comprehensive educational component to enrich and complete visitors' experience.
The traveling museum chronicles the Vietnam War era and the unique healing power of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, while the Information Center serves as a venue for people to learn about friends and loved ones lost in the war.
The Museum at Bethel Wood director Wade Lawrence explained, "it is truly fitting that the traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial comes to Bethel Woods, the site of the Woodstrock festival. " He added, "after almost four decades, there are still wounds that need to be healed, and this is the place to reconcile the differences of the past. We are proud to honor all who have served and laid their lives on the line for each of us."
There is no admission charge to visit The Wall, which will be on display on Bethel Woods' Great Lawn 24-hours per day.
Several area schools have already scheduled trips for their students to see The Wall.
The Vet Center in Middletown will also be on site to provide information on their readjustment counseling and outreach services to all veterans who served in any combat zone.
Bethel Woods is also offering free for this event Bethel Woods museum admission for U.S. Military Veterans who sign-in and U.S. Military Active Duty, Retired, and Reserve troops with ID.
This moving tribute to fallen Vietnam service people is something that all Americans, young and old, should see. Everyone will truly be moved by this experience.
Take some time to be part of this educational and emotional historic tribute to all American service people who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.
We commend Bethel Woods for hosting this Memorial.