If
you've never been to Rolling Thunder held every year during the Memorial Holiday
Weekend in Washington, DC, then you don't know what you missed. This event is
Very Emotional!!! It's something that really touches your heart.
People that can remember the Vietnam War can relate. The younger people of today
have no idea what this event is all about. I'm not saying that they can't be
touched by its meaning, but they can't relate to or remember the hurt that this
war caused like those of us who lived during the 60's & 70's.
The
"Wall" was the most amazing thing I have ever seen, and emotions were highly
felt. While you are walking along the Wall you can feel its presence. Trying to
keep the lumps from forming in your throat when you are standing next to the
Wall is almost impossible. There, in front of me was a man standing with his
fingers on a name, which was inscribed in the wall, and tears were streaming
down his cheek. You watch, and believe me, it's hard to hold back the tears.
While he is tapping on the name, you could hear him talking, and then finally he
says, "I'll see you later Buddy." Emotions run even higher as tears begin to
flow.
There are all kinds of items along the wall -- pictures, medals, letters, flowers, and other items that mean a lot to Loved Ones. There are a few pictures that will go with this little note. I hope that maybe you can feel the presence that was there just as others had felt.
A particular mural that was painted on a van at the Pentagon parking lot touched my wife very deeply. It was a picture of a woman who appeared to be in her early to mid-30's. She was standing next to the Wall and her fingers were lightly touching the inscription of a single name. In the reflection of the Wall was a young Navy soldier standing opposite her with his fingers pressed against hers.
Just
remember that this ride is held every year and it's always during the Memorial
Holiday Weekend.
Please try to make it at least once. It's something you'll never forget.
Thank you! ! !
A Big Thank You for looking and sharing these moments with us! ! !
