‘The Wall that Heals’ makes its way to Connecticut

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) — “The Wall that Heals” has made its way to Connecticut. The traveling exhibit honors those who lost their lives in the Vietnam War and provides comfort to veterans and their families.

“It is significant because it enables, especially our Vietnam veterans, an opportunity to come out and view the wall. Maybe they can’t get down to the memorial in Washington, D.C. and start the healing process,” Port 5 National Association of Naval Veterans Executive Officer Brian Turco said.

The Washington, D.C. replica is 375 ft. long and comprises hundreds of pieces.

Turco said once complete, there will be more than 58,000 names on the wall of those who lost their lives in the war.

It’s been 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War, but many veterans still struggle to cope with their experience on the battlefield.

“I had a number of instances to see killed in action, bodies, when I was in Vietnam. And when I see this, and I look around, and I say, it brings back a lot of memories,” Navy veteran William Battaglia said. “It’s about remembering the people that sacrificed everything for this war.”

“The Wall That Heals” has been displayed in nearly 700 communities nationwide. In addition to being a memorial, the exhibit is a mobile education center for students.

“They should know what happened and, as a matter of respect to those who made the effort for what we have in our country now, our freedom,” Battaglia said.

The wall at 4510 Park Ave. in Bridgeport is expected to be completed by Wednesday afternoon. It will be open to the public 24 hour s a day until Sunday.

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