Hailey
On a bright Wednesday morning, the spirit of teamwork and community support was on full display as dozens of volunteers worked together to set up The Wall That Heals.
This travelling memorial honours those who served in the Vietnam War and brings history closer to people across the country. The phrase “it takes a village” came to life as people from different backgrounds joined forces, showing that when a community works together, remarkable things can happen.
What Is The Wall That Heals?
The Wall That Heals is a mobile replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. It travels to towns and cities so that people who cannot visit the original wall can still pay their respects.
Alongside the memorial is an educational display, telling the stories of veterans and teaching visitors about the history and sacrifices of those who served.
How The Setup Began
The day started with volunteers unloading metal braces from the semi-trailer. These braces are essential for building the wall’s sturdy frame. People worked in teams, passing the parts to others who were responsible for connecting them.
The coordination was smooth, almost like a choreographed dance — each person knowing exactly what to do next.
ESU Athletes Lend A Helping Hand
Adding youthful energy to the event, athletes from Emporia State University (ESU) climbed to the top of the semi-trailer to help attach a large awning.
This awning would later provide shade for the educational panels, ensuring visitors could comfortably read and view the exhibits, even in bright sunlight. Their teamwork and strength made a big difference in moving the project along quickly.
Bringing The Wall Panels To Life
After the frame was set, it was time to bring in the most important part — the wall panels. These panels carry the engraved names of more than 58,000 men and women who lost their lives in the Vietnam War.
Each panel was carried carefully by two or three people, ensuring they were not scratched or damaged. Volunteers treated each panel with deep respect, understanding its significance.
A Community Effort In Action
The event showed the power of community service. There were people of all ages — from students to senior citizens — all united by a shared goal.
Some worked on the construction, while others provided water, snacks, and encouragement to the crew. Local businesses even contributed tools and equipment to make the work easier.
The Wall That Heals Setup At A Glance
| Task | Volunteers Involved | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unloading braces from trailer | 10+ | To provide the structural support for the wall |
| Connecting the frame | 8 | To create a sturdy base for the panels |
| Installing awning | ESU athletes | To shade the educational display |
| Carrying wall panels | 2-3 people per panel | To place engraved memorial panels safely |
Why The Wall That Heals Matters
This project is not just about setting up a wall — it is about preserving history and making sure future generations understand the cost of war.
Many visitors will find names of loved ones, friends, or even classmates. For them, this is more than a history lesson; it is a moment of reflection and remembrance.
The Emotional Impact on Volunteers
Several volunteers shared that being part of the setup was a deeply moving experience. Some had family members who served in Vietnam, while others simply wanted to show their appreciation for the sacrifices made. Many said they felt honoured to help bring this memorial to their community.
The setup of The Wall That Heals is a reminder that when a community comes together, it can create something truly meaningful. From unloading braces to carefully placing the engraved panels, every step was done with care, respect, and teamwork.
The Wall That Heals: This travelling memorial will soon open to visitors, offering a place to learn, remember, and honour those who gave their lives in service to their country.