Moving Wall memorializes real heroes

Rep. Allen Andrews

In a few weeks our nation will pause to honor and respect the heroes who have made great sacrifices to protect our freedoms.

Last month, tens of thousands of Missourians made their way to the State Capitol to pay tribute to the many brave individuals who gave their lives in the Vietnam War.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Moving Wall was in Jefferson City from Sept. 24 to Sept. 28 and folks from near and far, and of all ages, were able to visit and see the names of 58,307 names inscribed on the wall.

Officials who helped bring the wall to Jefferson City said peak times saw approximately 800 visitors each hour with non-peak times producing 400 visitors per hour.

In total, more than 30,000 people stopped to visit and pay their respects and spend a few moments in remembrance of those who gave all for this nation.

The following quotes from Vietnam Vets bring meaning to the significance of the Wall:

“It chokes me up every time. It brings back a lot of memories because there are a lot of guys on the wall that I remember, and when I look at their names I remember them just like it was yesterday.”

– Frank Stroble, who served as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam

“The Wall is actually more than just 58,000-plus names. These are individuals. These are people who have given their lives. These are, many of them, my friends.”

– Richard Schroepfer, Vietnam War veteran, 1st Infantry Div – 1st of the 18th Infantry “Swamp Rats”As always, it is an honor to represent you.