My weekly feature where I ask viewers If they remember local people, places, and events by using Sun archived photos. Runs in print, online and promoted via social media. Visit www.lowellsun.com/rememberwhen
In honor of Veterans Day, this week’s Remember When salutes the men and women of the armed services who honorably served our great country during the Vietnam War. Officially, the Vietnam War ended on April 30, 1975, but for some the pain and reality of war still lives today. To help honor and remember the 58,220 U.S. service members who died during the Vietnam War, a great wall was erected in 1982 in Washington, D.C.
While attending the dedication of the wall, Vietnam veteran John Devitt of Stockton, Calif., recognized its healing nature and founded Vietnam Combat Veterans, Ltd. And with the help of friends, the half-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, named The Moving Wall, was built and first put on display to the public in Tyler, Texas, in 1984.
In July 1993, The Moving or Traveling Wall visited Lowell for five days. Although these photos by Sun photographer David Brow can’t capture all the emotion of the event, they give us a look at the ceremonies involved with the bittersweet occasion.
Top left, Gov. William Weld brings in a wreath accompanied by Veteran Ken Vezina of Lowell. Top right, veterans line up in formation for opening ceremonies. Bottom left, Gary Gagnon of Lowell stands in the rain while watching the opening ceremony. Bottom right, veteran Michael Walsh of Somerville rubs a name from the wall.
On Monday be sure to take the time to thank a veteran for his or her dedication to serving our country. GOD BLESS AMERICA!