Cwilson341 Loc: Central Florida

There is a very somber area at one end of the Mall in Washington. Yesterday, I posted pictures of the Korean War Memorial. It is situated next to the Lincoln Memorial. We felt honored to see a large group of veterans on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. They had flown to DC on a Flight of Remembrance to see the memorials that honored their service as well as a few other inspiring sights. Directly beyond the Lincoln Memorial is the Vietnam War Memorial - The Wall. The atmosphere at The Wall is somber and respectful. Even young children seem to sense this and walk quietly with their families.

Looking at these shots and thinking about their meaning as I write this post, I feel filled with pride and thankfulness.

The Wall - from a distance.

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Up close The Wall is immense.

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From a central position, it seems to go on forever in either direction.

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Veterans gathered in front of the Lincoln Memorial.

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From the Lincoln Memorial, across the reflecting pool you can catch a glimpse of the World War II Memorial, the Washington Monument and, in the distance, the Capitol building.

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Three Soldiers Statue - near the Vietnam Wall

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Nature is always present - the is one of several ducks that hang out around the Reflecting Pool.

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Bob Mevis Loc: Plymouth, Indiana

These are great but certainly somber. I like the Duck pic too.

Tomfl101 Loc: Mount Airy, MD

Every war memorial should give us pause as we remember the ultimate sacrifice of those that served and defended our country. But the Vietnam War memorial with its simplicity and 50,000+ names is the most moving of all, with the 911 memorial in New York a close second. This is a must see for anyone visiting Washington DC. Thanks for sharing.

Modnar Loc: Batley' West Yorkshire, UK

The Vietnam War memorial represents a platoon of infantry moving cautiously forward.all except one are carting their rifles. The man who is not is the medic, probably a Quaker.

kschwegl Loc: Orangeburg, NY

Thanks for posting. I'm a Vietnam Vet, an I know 4 names on that wall. I can never leave the memorial with
out tears in my eyes.

Ken S.

chevman Loc: Matthews, North Carolina

Beautiful set, Carol. Thanks for sharing.

treadwl Loc: South Florida

Amen. Enough said.

Soul Dr. Loc: Beautiful Shenandoah Valley

Why do you assume the medic was a Quaker?
My dad was a medic in Korean War and Vietnam. He and our family are not Quakers.
I think you have been watching too many war movies.

Will

bobmcculloch Loc: NYC, NY

Blair Shaw Jr Loc: Dunnellon,Florida

Thank you for sharing this important set of images. And the Duck is cool too.

Cwilson341 Loc: Central Florida

Thank you. I agree that it is somewhat somber but seeing all those veterans being honored was a joyous thing. These are actually called Honor Flights and they are to make sure aging and disabled veterans are able to go and see that America appreciates their sacrifice.

Cwilson341 Loc: Central Florida

Thank you, Tom! You said it all, just right!

Cwilson341 Loc: Central Florida

Thank you for further enlightening this experience!

Cwilson341 Loc: Central Florida

Thank you for serving, Ken! I understand your pain but feel good that they are not forgotten.

Cwilson341 Loc: Central Florida

Thank you, Jerry!