Saturday, May 6th, 2017 was the 30th Vietnam and All Vets Reunion at Wickham Park, Melbourne, Fl.
Val and I got there just before the Massing of the Colors…always a very inspirational ceremony, made up of many of the local vets groups, clubs, and Legion groups…some of the participants were too young to have experienced war, and let’s pray that they never have to.
After all the groups marched in and assembled in the grassy area just in front of the main stage, there was a prayer, singing of our National Anthem, and the pledge of allegiance to the U.S. Flag.
Two combat choppers landed in the LZ just across from the main stage to the rear…that really attracted a lot of attention!!
By now, the scores of vendors in the main area were doing what looked like a pretty brisk business, both for food, drinks, and a huge array of military gear…pins, shirts, caps, etc.
We strolled over to the Wall area, and took in several of the military displays set up there. One was a tribute to all of the Service Dogs that served and were killed in combat…I had no idea there were so many…!!
Lots of people were tracing names from the Wall onto sheets of paper, while some knelt in silent prayer by the name of a loved one lost in the conflict.
A very moving environment at the Wall, for sure. Walking back to the stage area, we witnessed a Huey Chopper hovering over the pond near the Wall. My guess is, he was paying tribute to the men remembered on the Wall…Valerie cried at that one…
After that, we grabbed a bite to eat, and called it a day. Thanks to everyone who helped organize this 30th. Reunion, to the entertainers, the bands…AND…Doc Holiday!!! A very entertaining, and inspirational day…God Bless America…
Miserable and ValGal
Traveling Memorial Wall Escort 2017
Watch this Huey take a bow to the Wall in this Video!
“Whup-whup-whup-whup…Thousands of American troops in faraway places have thanked the Almighty when they heard that familiar sound. It meant help was on the way, and as it grew louder and came closer, even when the chopper tilted down and blew dust or rain or razor grass into their faces, they welcomed it.” – Ernest B. Furgurson SMITHSONIAN.COM
George’s Pics
ValGal’s Pic’s
