Texas State Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial is peaceful refuge
The State Fair of Texas and Veteran’s Day understandably draw the majority of visitors to the “Wall”, better known as the Texas Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial at Fair Park. The memorial was dedicated in 1989 by former President George H. W. Bush. Five tablets of Texas granite bear the names of Texans killed or missing in action, including nine Congressional Medal of Honor recipients. Alongside the memorial flows a soothing waterfall. “It’s good to know there is a quiet place to go in Dallas that is very comforting to friends and family,” says Floyd Jiminez, Secretary-Treasurer of the Friends of the Texas State Vietnam Memorial. “Here we can recognize the courage of these soldiers and come together, along with other veterans who served.” The memorial was built strictly through grass roots donations, without federal or state aid.
Flags and stars forever
During the fair, visitors are invited to place small American flags next to names on the wall that they recognize. Some names have as many as 12 flags next to them.
Wreaths, bracelets, flowers, flags, unopened bottles of beer, and other sentimental items are sometimes left next to the tablet bearing the name of a loved one. “We have received numerous wedding rings, some with the initials inscribed,” notes Billy Dean, Event Supervisor at Fair Park. “And once, even a Rolex watch.” Items are removed and cataloged noting the date, a description of the item, and ties to a specific name on a panel, if known. The cataloged items are then sent to the City of Dallas Archives for permanent storage.
Moving tributes
On Saturday, November 4, 2006, more than 500 members of the Vietnam Vets/Legacy Vets Motorcycle Club will leave at noon from Ameriquest Field in Arlington, then bike down Interstate 30 with a police escort before reaching the memorial at Fair Park. Once there, they pay their respects and hold a brief ceremony. The run is open to the public.
Floyd Jiminez hopes that more people will discover and support this simple, lasting memorial. “In our own way, each of us can remember and respond.”
For more information on the Texas State Vietnam Memorial, please visit www.texasvietnammemorial.com. For information on the Run to the Wall, contact Griedi@aol.com.
