Vietnam Moving Wall details, schedule unveiled
The Vietnam Moving Wall is getting closer to Wareham, and plans are nearly finalized for the big event.
At Tuesday’s Selectmen meeting, members of the Wareham Veterans Council and Friends of the Wareham Veterans Council announced the rundown for Aug. 17 to 21, when the half-size replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. will come to town.
Fundraising events, cash donations, money in the state budget and donations from surrounding towns and businesses have brought fundraising efforts close to the goal of $50,000, said Friends Treasurer Ilene Klaver.
Each day of the Moving Wall’s stay will have a theme. On Aug. 17 at 7 p.m., there will be a wreath ceremony by Blue Star Mothers to honor those killed in action. On Aug. 18 at 7 p.m., the presentation will focus on those missing in action and POWs. A presentation of commemorative pins will take place Aug. 19 at 7 p.m. On Aug. 20, a presentation at noon will focus on active duty military and families, and on Aug. 21 at 10 a.m., there will be a presentation dedicated to participating communities and organizations.
The Moving Wall will be open to the public 24 hours a day. Many keynote speakers are planned for the week.
“It’s inspiring to see this community rally together in support of our veterans from the Vietnam era,” said Matt Stanton, the site manager for the Moving Wall.
Marilyn Donahue, who is recruiting volunteers for the week, warned that “there will be noise and disruption” when the wall arrives, but said it is a good event that brings the community together.
“I have never seen an event in this town that is so non-controversial,” Donahue said. “It’s so validating to know that we are all pulling together as a community.”
Volunteer training for the Moving Wall takes place Aug. 2 at 6 p.m. in the Wareham Town Hall auditorium and all are invited to attend.
The Selectmen presented the Veterans Council with a framed letter to commemorate the upcoming event and thank them for the work they have done.