Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington

Until you really see it, you can't imagine what it really looks like. It was a beautiful place to visit. Can't wait to go back some day and spend more time there!

I love the way the history is all around you. I enjoyed seeing it. Although it is sad thinking about it, you know it represents pride. The feeling of being at the memorial is undescribable. It's amazing!

It was very meaningful.I served there and I visit often. I have many friends who have their names on the wall. The statues are breathtaking and well done. I usually sit and think for hours on the benches.

I felt so touched by this monument. We went to visit it over Mother's Day a few years ago and I ws touched by all of the flowers left for a "mom" who died. And the presents left for teh dead. You can't go and visit this without getting at least a little emotional.

When you go to D.C......come to the Wall, and as you walk from one end to the other, from one or two names at each end,to the center of the wall........sooooo many names, so many mothers/fathers who lost their sons. Do lay your hand flat on the wall for a minute...or two. You will feel the loss of those there and those left behind.

The best time for us to go visit was at dusk but much to my dismay the wall was too dimly lit to enjoy. I fell that I should have brought a flashlight. I shall return some day and will plan to go visit during daylight hours.

The Wall, as some call the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial, is stunning and moving in its simplicity. Paying respect to the 58,000 young Americans who lost their lives in the fight against "Communist opression" is something you should do if you have the chance. It also serves as a reminder to never go to war on false pretences (the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution that sent troops to Vietnam was fabricated based on intelligence that was literally made up), for the situation in Iraq is starting to look somewhat like the situation in Vietnam.

While peaceful and reflective, the memorial will always be lacking. Its simplicity is over stated to the point of humiliation. Being under ground reminds of those who turned their backs on those who served. It appears as a black gash on what is otherwise the United States' hall of fame. Those who served, particularly those who gave their all deserve more.

Once at the Lincoln memorial you need to hit the Korean an Vietnam Memorial on at the same time. I recommend the night tour for less crowds and a more peacful visit with our past. This is not to be missed while in DC.

My father, Cdr. Donald Richard Hubbs, was a pilot whose plane was lost during the Vietnam War, on March 17, 1968. Every American should visit The Wall, look at the names etched there, and realize that they are looking at the price of freedom. If you ever get a chance to visit The Vietnam Veteran's Memorial, look up my father's name and rub your fingers over his name. The three crewmates that were with him were also lost that day... Nightengale, Benson and Barber. You'll find their names near my father's name. They were never found, never accounted for, and remain missing. That is the price of freedom.