More than 10,000 saw The Wall in Des Plaines, thanks to hundreds of helpers
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2992 wishes to acknowledge and thank the many people and organizations that made the visit of The Wall That Heals possible.
Volunteer coordinator Caren Raymond organized and guided the numerous volunteers who donated their time. Her Marine husband Michael spent hours videotaping the event and helping wherever he was needed.
We also thank all the many volunteers that gave so selflessly. Thanks to the park district, chamber of commerce, fire department and especially the police, who provided security 24/7. The McHenry VFW Post 4600 was gracious in allowing the escort to Des Plaines start at their post, and giving everybody a hot breakfast.
Special thanks to Kevin O'Connell, who coordinated the transport of The Wall from McHenry to Des Plaines. Kevin was the contact person with the police departments and got the Huey Flyover arranged.
Our thanks to all the motorcycle riders and organizations that were part of the escort to Des Plaines, and the ride captain, Brian Burkross, who did a great job. Tony Arredia kept our meetings on track and provided opening comments at our programs.
Our opening ceremony was enhanced by the Chicago Police Department Emerald Society Pipes and Drums and the cadets from St. John's Northwestern Military Academy in Wisconsin. Singer Jeff Blume did a fantastic job with the national anthem and "God Bless The USA."
We had four separate religious representatives who we designated as chaplains: Deacon Jim Ernst from Our Lady of Hope; the Rev. Virginia Ericson of Christ Church; Pastor Charles Reid of Bethesda Worship Center and Captain Matt Foley U.S. Army, of St. James Parish, Arlington Heights.
The American Legion was well represented by Franklin Park Post 974, our Color Guard and guides for the candlelight service on Saturday night; and Des Plaines Post 36, which held a morning service every day and were escorts throughout.
The Sons of the Legion Squadron 36 acted as escorts and help where needed. Vietnam Veterans Chapter 311 conducted a service on Sunday for those who passed since Vietnam, but because of Vietnam, and participated in the opening and candlelight ceremonies.
Our thanks also go to Jerry Christopherson of True Patriot Care for the 700-plus American flags at the Wall and Bugles Across America and the Des Plaines Community Band for "Taps."
Financial support came from Rivers Casino, Des Plaines City Council and individual donors including state Sen. Laura Murphy, Walmart, VVA Chapter 242, state Rep. Marty Moylan, Millennium Bank, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 690 Palatine and the Greek American Restaurant Association.
Our guest speaker at the opening ceremony was Major General James Mukoyama, a Vietnam Veteran. The guest speaker for the candlelight service was Fred Salanti, founder of the Missing in America Project and my roommate from 50 years ago at Fort Bliss, Texas. He sent a video that was shown using the Optimist Club screen and projector.
Sound was provided by the City of Des Plaines. The beautiful floral displays were provided by Chris Pesche of Pesches Flowers. Generation at Oakton printed our program books and Shop & Save Market fed the volunteers who constructed The Wall on Wednesday.
A special thanks to my co-hosts, Sons of the Legion Squadron Commander Kevin O'Connell and former Mayor Tony Arredia. None of this would have been possible without the trust and support of my wife Noreen. She designed the logo we used, handled all the finances and paperwork, helped where ever needed and designed the entire program book.
The Wall was seen by more than 10,000 people and I sincerely hope it did indeed heal. This is a worthwhile project created and supported by patriots who have not forgotten the sacrifice of our fallen heroes. Thanks to them we were able to do this. God Bless America.
Mike Lake, chairman
The Wall That Heals Committee