Traveling Replica of Vietnam Veterans Memorial Comes to Buena for Limited Time, Ceremony on Oct. 3

BUENA, N.J. Mayor David Zappariello and Buena Borough Council are proud to announce that the Moving Wall, a half-sized replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, will be on display as the first of a series of events geared toward honoring the borough’s veterans.

The Department of Defense is coordinating, supporting, and facilitating programs to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War at federal, state, and local levels. Area residents will have the opportunity to view this national treasure beginning on October 3, and running through October 7. The memorial will be located at the corner of Central Avenue and Southwest Boulevard in Minotola.

The Wall stands 6 feet tall at the center and covers nearly 300 feet from end to end. “This traveling memorial stands as a solemn reminder of the great sacrifices made during the Vietnam War. The purpose of the Wall is to allow people to pay their respects, rekindle friendships and have a chance to witness this national monument, right here at home,” said Mayor Zappariello in a press release.

The Wall will be escorted into the Borough by several veterans’ groups and the opening ceremony will commence at 6 p.m. on October 3. The Wall will be open for visitation daily, through October 7, from 9 a.m. through 9 p.m.

“Our opening ceremony will be a momentous event, that will be attended by many area veterans, public officials and community residents,” Zappariello continued. “This is a once in a lifetime experience. It will be a moment of immense pride and an opportunity to show our support as a community, to those veterans who have sacrificed so much. The opening program will feature keynote speaker, Senator Chris Brown and Department of Defense speaker, Colonel Rick Tiernan, US Army, Retired. The program will conclude with a Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Lapel Pin ceremony and a full memorial service performed by Marine Honor Guards from Last Salute and Coast Guard Honor Guards.”

For more information about volunteer opportunities, donations, or general information regarding the event, please contact Katrina D’Alessandro at (936) 788-3389. Additional information about the Wall can be found on the Facebook page, “The Moving Wall Visits the Borough of Buena.”