I visited the travleing wall when it was here in Las Vegas. And while I am not a veteran, all the names, the magnitude of what it meant, put me on my knees in tears.
One of my best friends in High School, Mike Moran, died in Viet Nam. While I was going to college I had never applied for a college deferment, I was 1A and already had gone for my induction physical; I was just waiting to get called up.
Then they decided to have the lottery system. I pulled 345 in the lottery, which meant guys born on 344 other days besides my birthday would get called before they got to me. Well, with that news, I went back to college, got married and joined the police department.
Thank you for your service to our country. The wall evokes a feeling I can't describe. Maybe it is because, but for the luck of the draw, my name could have been there as well.
For someone like yourself, who did serve, I am sure the wall will have even greater meaning and make a deeper impact. Prepare to walk away from the wall with your heart touched and your soul changed forever.
Our best wishes go with you, this is the second bravest thing that you have ever done in your life.
Take care!
DOC
