Memorial wall honoring Vietnam veterans opens today in Warren

"The Wall That Heals," a three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, opens to the public today with an evening ceremony honoring those who served and sacrificed in the Vietnam War.

The mobile memorial and its accompanying Education Center are situated on the south lawn of Packard Music Hall and will be accessible 24 hours a day at no charge. The exhibit pays tribute to the more than 3 million Americans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War and bears the names of the 58,281 service members who died in the conflict.

The opening ceremony is scheduled for 6 p.m., Thursday, May 29.  Other planned events include a "Kids Day" on May 30 from 1-3 p.m. and a "Medal of Honor: A Tribute to the Fallen" event on May 31 at 2 p.m. The exhibit will close at noon on June 1. Veterans' resources will be available daily in the Shelter House starting at 9 a.m.

"Hosting The Wall That Heals provides an opportunity to honor and remember all those who served and sacrificed in the Vietnam War and educate visitors on the continuing impact of the Vietnam War on America," said Jim Knotts, president and CEO of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund.

The 375-foot-long replica stands 7.5 feet tall at its highest point. The mobile Education Center features photos of local "Hometown Heroes" and Vietnam veterans honored through VVMF's "In Memory" program, videos about the history of the Wall, educational exhibits, and a replica of the In Memory plaque.