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Led by a contingent from Vietnam Veterans of America Westchester Chapter 49, dozens of volunteers arrived at the park to assist the "Moving Wall" team of Lisa and Gray Aaron, who transported the replica for assembly.
"Westchester has hosted the Wall three times in the past," Chapter 49 Director Dan Griffin said. "The guys come because this is our way of honoring those who gave their lives. The "Moving Wall" brings it home."
Griffin and his men joined Village of Hastings volunteers. led by Recreation Department Supervisor Lisa O'Reilly, who organized the Wall's visit to Westchester. The local veterans and volunteers hand-carried and carefully placed the sections of wall that bear the names of the 58,272 men and women who died in service during the Vietnam conflict. "The Moving Wall", which has been touring the country for nearly 30 years, is a tribute to veterans, families and friends of those who died or are missing in Vietnam, especially those who may not have the opportunity to see the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington. Devised by Vietnam veteran John Devitt after he attended the annual commemoration celebrated in Washington for Vietnam veterans, The wall is a half-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. It was displayed for the first time in Tyler, Texas, in October 1984. Once the wall was erected, the Vietnam Veterans and local officials hosted a short ceremony. Visitors then walked the expanse of the "Moving Wall checking for names of loved ones and friends. The "Moving Wall" will be on exhibit at Zinsser Park through Sunday from dawn to dusk.
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