Learn and grow with The Wall That Heals

I didn’t realize how little I knew about the Vietnam War until I visited The Wall That Heals Thursday.

I know, the child of a history teacher should know about these things, but I didn’t!

I took my girls over Thursday evening because we wanted to see The Wall at night. And boy, was it a sight to behold. It’s pretty awe inspiring during the day, but at night, it is just beautiful.

The girls had lots of questions and that is when I discovered how little I knew. We watched the videos in the educational center, saw photos and listened to conversations.

My youngest daughter, who is 4, said, “This makes me so sad that all these people were so brave and went to war and they died.”

I’m sure people are wondering if their child or children will understand the importance of such a monument, but I knew after hearing those words leave her mouth that she got it. Regardless of your age, it is hard not to feel the importance of The Wall when you are standing in front of it. 

After watching one of the videos in the educational area, my 8 year old turned to me and said, “This is so sad, mom. I’m so glad they built this wall to remember people.”

What a wonderful thing for the Washington County Community Foundation to bring to Washington County. It is an honor to have The Wall That Heals visit our county for a few days.

I urge everyone to take time to visit.Take your children, take your grandchildren and help them learn and understand this important time in our history. It really is a sight to behold.

The Wall is open 24 hours a day until Sunday at 3 p.m.

It is set up at the Washington County Family YMCA.