How Dundee-area organizations landed the traveling Vietnam memorial
The time, money and effort it takes to host a traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a big undertaking for any community, let alone two small Dundee-area organizations. But for those involved with the True Patriots Care Foundation and the American Legion Post 679, it's an honor.
Jerry Christopherson, president of True Patriots Care, submitted an application for The Wall That Heals in the spring of 2018. He was ecstatic when he received word from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund last fall that the exhibit would make a stop at West Dundee's Randall Oaks Park.
Then he got to work.
After paying $10,000 upfront, organizers started seeking support from throughout the community. West Dundee, East Dundee, Carpentersville and Gilberts each contributed more than $5,000. Other towns, businesses and organizations also donated.
It's not common for West Dundee to contribute to private events, Mayor Chris Nelson said, "but the board, staff and I all support any initiative to assist and recognize the contributions of those who served."
State and local police will escort the truck carrying the wall from Woodstock to West Dundee on Tuesday afternoon. Community members are encouraged to gather on Main Street in downtown East and West Dundees between 4 and 5 p.m. to wave flags and welcome the wall.
The exhibit, which contains 140 individual panels, will be installed Wednesday and be open 24 hours a day through Sunday. Volunteer educators will be on site at all times to guard the wall and help visitors find specific names.
The timing of having the wall during the Fourth of July holiday weekend makes it even more meaningful, Nelson said. In addition to events held throughout the weekend, he hopes visitors can observe the exhibit in a solemn, quiet environment.
"I'm just grateful that those involved allowed our community to host it," he said. "Our main focus is to provide a nice, quiet, safe and beautiful setting for a really important memorial."