“The Wall That Heals” Comes to USC Upstate
 By: Matt Estepp with photos by Wanda Estepp
Carolina Biker News - July 2008
www.carolinabikernews.com

On April 15, 2008 The Patriot Guard Riders and other volunteers escorted the Vietnam memorial to the USC Upstate campus.  The 240 ft. wall was displayed free to the public for a few days.  There was a traveling museum of Vietnam artifacts including jeeps, ambulances and trucks.  It has been over 38 years since the Vietnam war was fought.  Most of today’s younger generation doesn’t know a lot about this war.  The wall brings people together to share memories with their families and even strangers.  I watched as people pointed out the names of their loved ones  After all these years, the loss is still felt.  All those names were not just names.  They belong to someone’s son, brother, husband or father.  Six of the names on the wall were women.  I’m 17 and realized that those men were not much older than myself when they gave their life serving our country.  Some men enlisted, but others were drafted.  It didn’t matter what their opinion or fears of the war were, they went where they were told and served proudly. They left behind family and life as they knew it, never knowing if they would see their loved ones again.  We are grateful for those who made it home.  Veterans are still dealing with injuries that are physical and emotional.  Because of exposure to chemicals like agent orange, the causalities will go on for years to come.  My dad is a Vietnam veteran who was drafted at the age of 19.  He came home, but more than 58,000 did not return.

I’m glad I got to visit the memorial with him at my side.  Freedom for our country or any country is a price that is paid not only by soldiers, but by their families.

Remember that no matter what your opinion of war, always respect and appreciate the men and women who serve our country proudly.