The Wall That Heals, A Reflection
From September 12th to September 15th, 2024, the Wall That Heals Ohio event drew crowds to Ostrander and Havener Park in Delaware offering a powerful opportunity for attendees to honor and reflect on the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans. An escort of vehicles accompanying the Wall passed through the village, allowing the community to show their support and catch a glimpse of the Wall, which later welcomed thousands at its location in the Havener Park.
With around-the-clock access and no admission fee, the Wall was illuminated throughout the night, bearing the names of 58,281 brave men and women who lost their lives in combat during the Vietnam War. The event was brought to life by the dedication of about 300 volunteers, making it a resounding success.
A highlight of the event was a candlelight ceremony on Saturday evening, where the Wall was lit in orange to honor the 300,000 men and women who have died since the war as a result of Agent Orange. Over 15,000 visitors had the chance to experience not only the Wall but also a traveling museum and educational center, with five local school systems participating in the event. Nearly 1,000 students engaged in educational tours, learning about the valor and sacrifices of our veterans.
Additionally, buses were arranged to transport seniors from retirement and nursing homes, ensuring that the older generations could connect with this significant moment in history. Witnessing the profound impact the Wall had on those who visited made all the efforts worthwhile for the organizers, highlighting the event as a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many.
