When you first approach the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial
in Washington, D.C., it doesn't seem like much.....even on the significant, solemn celebration  of the 20th anniversary of the Wall

But it doesn't take long to appreciate the depth and importance...

Presenting the colors were color guards
 from all the armed services

A speech by Vietnam Veteran / Senator Kerry from Massachusetts and ...

Vietnam Veteran / General Myers, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

Honored guests from all ages and all parts of the country

The bagpipes brought Amazing Grace
... and then taps from the bugle

After the speeches and retiring of the colors ...

came the memories ....

and the tears from thoughts of lives that ended so young ...

the memory of precious names among 58,288 men and women
 that gave their lives so that others may be free ..

some came to remember buddies, sons, daughters, fathers, husbands, and classmates ....
others to pass the word back home that they are remembered ...

for many it remains a solitary experience ....

side by side with others for whom it is a solitary experience ...

Thank you