The Highground Held Opening Ceremonies for Traveling Wall Exhibits on Wednesday
Thursday, August 14th, 2014 -- 9:05 AM
-The Highground held the opening ceremonies for their three traveling wall exhibits on Wednesday afternoon.The first ceremony was for the ?Wall of Remembrance? which pays tribute to the U.S. casualties of the Global War on Terror. The wall was initially built as a memorial for the 10th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks and was only going to be displayed once for that anniversary.
However, it was decided that it was such a touching tribute that it should be displayed many times and being at The Highground is the wall?s 45th appearance. The wall currently has 10,803 names carved on to its panels.
The next ceremonies held were for the ?Wall that Heals? and the Canadian Vietnam Memorial Wall, both touching tributes to the lives lost in the Vietnam War. $9 million was raised by everyday citizens to create the actual Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. and many people didn?t realize that Canadian troops were also present during the Vietnam War.
During both ceremonies, those in attendance heard very emotional stories from Gold Star mother Celeste Kaufman, General Mark Anderson, Vietnam Vet John Van Wie and Vietnam Vet Steve Maddox. There was also a balloon release, rifle salute, songs, talking circles and more.
It was also mentioned during the ceremonies, that a raffle was held as the walls were making their way to The Highground and over $1100 was raised in that short amount of time. The Highground truly was a place of healing and education Wednesday afternoon.
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.