Families and community members across the Magnolia State will have an opportunity to pay tribute to those who served and sacrificed through a unique display that will set up shop in Crystal Springs.
“The Wall That Heals” — a 375-foot replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. — will be showcased in the Mississippi city beginning Thursday and will remain open to the public 24 hours a day until Sunday at 2 p.m.
The free event, sanctioned by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, will be held at the former Rogel Ford dealership on Highway 17. A motorcycle escort from Brookhaven to the display site took place on Tuesday, marking the memorial’s arrival in the city. Residents were asked to line the route to show their respect for the fallen Vietnam veterans whose names are etched on the wall.
Construction of the memorial began at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, and organizers are preparing for several ceremonies and activities throughout the weekend. These include a Welcome Home Ceremony, which will take place on Thursday at 6:30 p.m., followed by a Candlelight Ceremony on Friday at 6:30 p.m.
School and community group tours can be scheduled on Friday and Saturday, providing an opportunity for visitors of all ages to reflect on the legacy of those who served. The commemoration will conclude with a Closing Ceremony on Sunday at 1:45 p.m., followed by the takedown of the display at 2 p.m. For full event schedules, volunteer opportunities, and group tour availability times, click here.
