Local veterans to welcome Memorial Vietnam wall

Local veterans to welcome Memorial Vietnam wall
Replica of National Vietnam Memorial on display September 7-9

The Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall will be on display at Gates Memorial Park September 7-9. The memorial is a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

"Monroe County is fortunate to be home to active and dedicated veterans whose service to our community and nation has continued well beyond their years in the military," said County Executive Maggie Brooks. "We are excited to have this opportunity to pay tribute to the brave men and women who gave their lives in the name of freedom and democracy during the Vietnam War. I want to thank Alvah Halloran & Son Funeral Home for their partnership in bringing this memorial to Monroe County."

People will be able to visit the memorial 24 hours a day. Volunteers from area civic organizations, including Chapter 20 of the Vietnam Veterans of America, will be present at the memorial at all times. "I am pleased to join the County Executive in welcoming this memorial to our community," said Town of Gates Supervisor Ralph Esposito. "The Town of Gates is proud that we were chosen to host this memorial as we honor the more than 58,000 Americans who died or are missing in Vietnam."

The following events are planned: The Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall will arrive at Gates Memorial Park, off Buffalo Road, with a Motorcycle Escort on September 4 at 1:30 p.m.; Opening Ceremony will be held September 7 at 6 p.m.; Prayer Services will be held September 7-9 at 8 a.m.; Closing Ceremony will be held September 9 at 4 p.m. and a Candlelight service will be held Saturday, September 8 at 8 p.m.