The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and a mobile Education Center, has reached North Texas.
The exhibit, which honors and remembers the more than three million Americans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces in the Vietnam War, will be at Grand Park in Frisco from May 2 to May 5. It bears the names of the 58,281 men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam.
The Wall That Heals travels in a 53-foot trailer, unfolding into a mobile Education Center when parked, recounting the Vietnam War's story. The replica, 375 feet long and 7.5 feet high, lets visitors experience The Wall's towering presence with the opportunity to make name rubbings of service members. It will be open 24 hours a day and free to the public.
"We're excited to introduce The Wall That Heals to Frisco for the first time, providing a healing and educational experience for all visitors," said Shenna Lawless, Commander of Frisco Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8273.
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"Honoring and remembering those who served in the Vietnam War is important, and we're dedicated to ensuring the Vietnam generation knows our deep appreciation for their service. Our goal is to ensure that the Vietnam generation knows how much we value their service still today."
PHOTOS: The Wall That Heals in Frisco
The mobile Education Center exhibit comprises several components. It includes digital photo displays showcasing "Hometown Heroes" - service members listed on The Wall with their hometowns from Frisco and neighboring communities.
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Furthermore, digital photo displays honor local Vietnam veterans through VVMF’s In Memory program. The exhibit also offers video displays that provide insights into the history and significance of The Wall, educational exhibits that depict items typically left at The Wall in D.C., a replica of the In-Memory plaque, a map of Vietnam, and a chronological overview of the Vietnam War.
Since its debut in 1996, the exhibit has been displayed in over 700 U.S. communities. The Wall That Heals is run by VVMF, the nonprofit behind the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. It's the only traveling exhibit linked to The Wall, featuring its most giant replica. Two VVMF staff members lead local volunteers, interact with visitors and students, and ensure the respectful atmosphere of The Wall.
