JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
The upcoming arrival of the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall to Tennessee was announced at last month’s Marion County Commission meeting.
Nancy Perry, speaking during the Public Comments portion of the meeting, shared that the Memorial will be on display in Franklin County at Winchester City Park, located at 1561 Phillip Fulmer Parkway across from Tims Ford Lake. An official escort for the Wall will travel from Monteagle to Winchester, passing through Sewanee and Cowan, to guide visitors toward the park. Admission to the Memorial is free, though donations are welcome.
The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall is a scaled-down, mobile replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. It stands six feet tall and spans nearly 300 feet in length. Created by the Vietnam and All Veterans of Brevard (VVB) in Florida, the Wall honors the more than 58,000 service members who lost their lives in the Vietnam War—mirroring the names etched on the original monument in the nation’s capital.
Perry encouraged school groups and Marion County residents to attend, emphasizing the importance of learning about the sacrifices made by veterans. She shared her personal connection to the event, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to experience the Memorial locally.
The Wall will be displayed from Thursday, August 14 through Monday, August 18. Opening ceremonies will take place on August 14 at 6 p.m., hosted by Winchester’s City Council and Mayor Sean Crabtree, alongside several veterans’ organizations and Tennessee state leaders. Participating groups include American Legion Post 44, the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) 18-11, Congressman Scott DesJarlais, and State Representative Iris Rudder.
Volunteers, teachers, and guides will be on-site to help visitors locate specific names and to provide educational information about the Memorial. Golf carts will also be available for guests needing mobility assistance.
