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• • Montrose Stadium Project
  • Vietnam Moving Wall
  • Historical Preservation
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Vietnam Moving Wall

The Montrose Community Foundation proudly partnered with the community to host the Vietnam Moving Wall from May 13th through May 18th.  It is estimated that more than 17,000 people visited the Wall in Cerise Park over the five days.  Among those visitors were nearly 1,800 middle and high school students from Montrose, Delta, Cedaredge, and Ouray.  Many turned out Saturday, May 16th for an Armed Services Celebration which included a flag presentation to local families whose loved ones perished in Vietnam.

Hosting the Moving Wall was a rare privilege and opportunity for our community to share this piece of history together.  The Montrose Community Foundation is proud to support this endeavor and thanks all Veterans for their tremendous service to our country!  In addition, we would like to thank the Moving Wall Committee who tirelessly worked to make this event possible.  Also, thank you to the numerous volunteers who turned out to lead school tours, serve as hosts and hostesses helping visitors find names, and the many individuals who participated in the various ceremonies through the week.  Finally, we would like to thank the community for their outpouring of financial support.   It was an event that held deep meaning for all involved.  Read this excerpt from a letter received following the Wall’s visit:

“Going to the Wall was one of the hardest things my husband has ever done, but he knew it was necessary.  The last few days have been like opening the floodgates of memories.  It is one of the few tiimes he’s talked about Vietnam, and the first time he’s been able to talk about his friend who died in the War . . . I am so utterly thankful for the time and effort that you and other members of the committee expended in getting the Wall to Montrose.  In our visits to the Wall, I sensed a peace and a unity of purpose that I’ve never experienced before.  Complete strangers were weeping together and giving hugs of healing and reconciliation.  I, too, feel changed and healed.  Thank you, thank you.”

Let us continue to appreciate and remember the sacrifice given by so many.  Visit the “Veterans Living Memorial” in Cerise Park.  In the footprint of where the Moving Wall rested during the visit to Montrose, you will find thirteen Austrian Pines planted in a cascading fashion.  May this memorial represent a grateful community that honors the Veterans of all wars!
Photos courtesy of Janine Mayfield