While it is in town, The Wall That Heals is definitely highlighting the service and sacrifices made by Americans during the Vietnam War. But it is also — at least indirectly — drawing attention to current policy matters affecting veterans of all wars, according to lawmakers at the state and federal levels attending Thursday’s opening ceremonies.
Kansas Second District Congressman Derek Schmidt says the federal discussion has been focused, in part, in right-sizing the Department of Veterans Affairs. The other part: meeting needs as they arise.
60th District House Representative Mark Schreiber says lawmakers “try do right” by veterans on a range of issues.
Along with current policy matters, 17th District State Senator Mike Argabright says The Wall That Heals offers a chance for residents to thank veterans for their service.
Attendance was heavy for Thursday’s opening ceremonies, and The Wall That Heals remains on 24-7 display just west of Emporia’s American Legion Post 5 through Sunday afternoon. Taps and a special Agent Orange candlelight ceremony will take place around sunset Friday night, with Taps also being performed around sunset Saturday. Besides the three-quarter scale replica wall containing the names of the better than 58,000 Americans who died during the Vietnam War, residents are also encouraged to check out the mobile education center with numerous information points about the war.
KVOE and KVOE.com will continue coverage through the weekend with news stories, photos and videos.
