The time had come, and it may never happen again. At least, not this close to home. I decided to go to the moving wall memorial at Mona Lake Park, in Muskegon, Michigan, Friday, June 23.

This would be only  for a short visit before leaving for work. That would give me the chance to see if I might be able to work up to a longer visit Saturday evening.

I've always wanted to see the Vietnam Veteran memorial in Washington, or the smaller moving wall, but I had some doubt if I could handle it. Even though it was 30 years ago for me. The memories of what it was like to be a young man just out of high school going to fight a war in a far away country are deeply etched into my mind. It seems strange how often the sights, sounds and even the smells of things that happened so long ago could come back so easily.

After the short visit on Friday, I felt like I had to go back. It was the least anyone could do for these men and women who gave their lives for their country. I thought that Saturday evening there wouldn't be many people around as the gray cloudy skies were threatening to rain at anytime. As I drove near the park I could see people and cars everywhere. It was going to be a long walk but it seemed best to park my van in the first available place. While walking up the road, someone gave me a program and I could see that a memorial service was going to start soon. So much for trying to miss the crowd.

There was a tent off to one side with a display of some maps and equipment, such as helmets, packs, and other items that were used by the soldiers. This gave visitors the chance to put the equipment on to see what it must have been like to be weighed down with so much. This would only be a small part of the experience without the searing heat, tangle of thick jungle growth and an enemy force ready to kill on sight.

There were many Vietnam Vets around, of course, and I spent some time talking with them. It helped being with those who knew what it was all about. The veterans didn't seem to have any trouble finding each other as so many wore boonie hats, unit patches or other items of the Vietnam War period. Many of us were only 19 or 20 year old combat vets when we acquired that look of having aged, mentally and emotionally before our time.

Even though there were people of all ages everywhere, the sight of the long dark wall with so many names engraved on it seemed to demand a reverent quiet and respect. It was very touching to see people willing to honor these men and women who had given the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

VISIT MOVING WALL (CONTINUED)

SKYTROOPERS HOMEPAGE