June 12 Arrival of the Wall

It was a very warm morning, the “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans” event had not even officially begun but veterans in the thousands turned out in front of the Branson Grand Palace to greet each other with a sincere “Welcome Home” and a hearty handshake. Grown men who would have otherwise passed each other on the street with nary a nod turned out wearing proudly shirts, caps and patches displaying their military affiliations and proceeded to mingle informally, comparing details of unit numbers and year of service. Men, who otherwise shy from expressions of emotion, cried and hugged one another as they renewed old bonds.

First order of the day was the arrival of the ¾ scale Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. It was reported that a group of “bikers” had traveled early that morning to Springfield to escort the wall on into Branson. No one in the parking lot was certain when the wall was due to arrive but the excitement was high and rumors rampant. Some reports said there were as many as 900 “bikers” in the escort and it was creating traffic tie-ups on the highway all along the way.

Finally we heard sirens, saw state police cars and the procession of motorcycles approaching flanking the large semi truck bearing the precious symbol of the Memorial Wall. The bikers looked tired but yet excited, knowing their mission had been worthwhile and that they had been successful in delivering their escort in true style. Cameras clicked and videos rolled as the bikes paraded by with their finest display of patriotic clothes and flags. True there were probably in excess of 300 bikes, but if there were the rumored 900 when they started…a good 600 of them must be back there making repairs along the highway. (Sorry guys!)

Once everyone was parked, they had a brief ceremony before everyone had an opportunity to help in unloading the panels that go together to make up “The Wall”. There were cadets in training, reservists, and active duty military on hand to help with the task. They were gracious in allowing the retirees and veterans an opportunity to feel instrumental in this labor of love and it was truly heartwarming to watch.

Once we had gauged our limitation of sunlight and heat, we left and spent an hour or so just riding the motorcycle around Branson exploring the sights and sounds. Upon returning to our motor home, knowing there were thunder showers in the forecast, we tucked our red baby into the enclosed trailer before we went in for the night. Good thing too as we had more than our share of thunder, lightening and hail that night.