Oregon Memorial Traveling Wall Visits The Dalles Veterans Home, Honoring Fallen Soldiers
By Joshuah Albert
The Dalles, Ore., July 23, 2024 – The Oregon Memorial Traveling Wall made a poignant visit to the Oregon Veterans Home in The Dalles, honoring fallen soldiers from Oregon.
The wall, a project of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 805 in Roseburg and Umpqua Valley, holds the names of Oregon soldiers who lost their lives in the Vietnam War, with additional panels dedicated to those who perished in the Iraq War.
The event was inspired by a Vietnam War veteran's unfulfilled wish to visit the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C. Due to his health, he couldn't make the trip.
Alex Bailey from the Oregon Veterans Home facilitated the wall's visit to The Dalles. “If he can't visit the wall, then the wall will visit him,” Bailey remarked. He added, “It was a real joy to watch his reaction to seeing the memorial. Events like this are important; they bring healing to the vets here in The Dalles.”
Treey Wekley (left), Rogger Boucock(right)
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 805 members Rogger Boucock and Treey Wekley, who have traveled with the wall for over a decade, shared their sentiments.
“It’s been an honor to serve over 700 young men from Oregon,” said Boucock.
The opening ceremony at the Oregon Veterans Home included the pledge of allegiance led by Army Veteran Michael Galicia. Sarah Reed, Program Director for the Oregon Department of Veteran Affairs, provided an overview of the wall's significance.
Johnathan from Shannon’s Ice-cream
“The wall is a living memorial, updated annually with names of those lost in all conflicts since Vietnam. It is a place for communities to come together, offering healing and support.”
Joe Glover, filling in for Dr. Daniels, and Linda Adams, a veteran advocate and liaison officer at the Oregon Veterans Home, delivered heartfelt speeches. Adams highlighted her extensive involvement in veteran organizations and her commitment to assisting veterans in obtaining their VA benefits.
The ceremony concluded with a speech by Steven Lawrence, a Vietnam War veteran and former mayor of The Dalles. Lawrence reflected on his service and professional career, emphasizing his dedication to community service.
The event concluded with a moment of silence after reading the names of local fallen soldiers on the wall, followed by a viewing of the memorial and an ice cream social.
The Oregon Memorial Traveling Wall continues to be a powerful symbol of remembrance and healing for veterans and their families.
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