SAN LUIS OBISPO — The all-new, larger The Wall That Heals exhibit will have a new activity each day while it visits San Luis Obispo March 29 through April 1.
The County’s Veterans Services Office released the event schedule today. The activities include a ‘Welcome Home’ (opening) ceremony, a closing ceremony, a candlelight vigil, and the 2018 Veterans’ Stand Down.
The County of San Luis Obispo is among the first to host the new The Wall That Heals exhibit in 2018. And for the first time, visitors will be able to do name rubbings of individual service member’s names on the new three-quarter scale Memorial replica that is 375 feet in length.
“We hope that everyone in San Luis Obispo will be able to find the time to come see this new exhibit of The Wall That Heals,” said Veterans Service Officer Christopher Lopez. “Local schools will have guided-tour field trips to the exhibit to educate a new generation about the impact of the Vietnam War on our community. A candlelight vigil will be held to honor those that gave the ultimate sacrifice and perhaps bring some closure and healing to those directly impacted by the conflict.”
Veterans seeking relief from homelessness or more information about resources, benefits, employment, and fellowship opportunities available to them should come to the Stand Down that will be held on site on the third day of the event. Teachers, schools, and other groups that would like to schedule a guided tour are asked to email slovets@co.slo.ca.us.
Parking and entry to this event is free. Volunteers are still needed for this event. Community members interested in volunteering are asked to sign up here. For more information on this event, including information about volunteering, please visit www.slocounty.ca.gov.
| Event Schedule | ||
| March 29 | 9 a.m. | Guided tours for local schools. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund has lesson plans and a trained guide. Field trips end at 3 p.m. |
| March 29 | 5 p.m. | ‘Welcome Home’ (opening) ceremony. Ceremony includes posting of the colors and community speakers. |
| March 30 | 7 p.m. | Candlelight vigil. Activity is conducted by the Vietnam Veterans of America Guadalupe chapter #982. Candles will be provided. |
| March 31 | 11 a.m. | 2018 Veterans’ Stand Down. Community service providers will be available to provide information about services and benefits available to veterans. Activity ends at 3 p.m. |
| April 1 | 1:30 p.m. | Closing ceremony. Ceremony includes the playing of Taps. |