U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released the following statement after the opening ceremony of the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall at Hillsborough County’s Veterans Memorial Park.  Neighbors can visit the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall now through Oct. 30.  In addition, U.S. Rep. Castor is hosting a Vietnam War Veterans 50th Commemoration on Monday, Oct. 30, 10 a.m. at the Bryan Glazer Family JCC, the former home of Ft. Homer Hesterly Armory, 522 N. Howard Ave., Tampa, FL  33606.

“The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall’s time in Tampa is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices of our brave servicemen and servicewomen during the Vietnam War,” said U.S. Rep. Castor.  “It reminds us of the value of our Armed Services and their tireless work.  It also reminds us of the cost of war and the need to support our troops after they return home.”

“Our community is a patriotic one and I encourage everyone to note the stories of these brave men and women who sacrificed so much.  The names of these soldiers who paid the ultimate price for our country are etched for eternity on the memorial’s granite wall.  We must celebrate the unity and healing this wall stands for, just as we must reject efforts to divide us.  We salute these soldiers and their families for their service and sacrifice.”

U.S. Air Force Capt. (Ret.) Michael Burns said during the ceremony: “To speak about the wall is, for me, a humbling experience, one that creates intense emotions and grief for the losses of our human treasure, recalling the cost of each loss to family and friends, noting each life cut short….”

The 2008 National Defense Authorization Act authorized a commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War to honor and highlight the service of members of the Armed Forces during the Vietnam War.  U.S. Rep. Castor is proud to serve as a Commemorative Partner to thank and honor Vietnam veterans and their families of her congressional district.  Her commemoration ceremony is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 30, 10 a.m. at the Bryan Glazer Family JCC.  For more details on U.S. Rep. Castor’s Vietnam War Veterans 50th Commemoration, please visit Castor.House.gov or call 813-871-2817.

“Many veterans who served during the Vietnam era were not welcomed home with open arms and recognized for their service because of the political division at the time.  It is time to rectify this.  I hope our community will join me in honoring the service of these men and women as they receive a newly commissioned pin – like retired Marine Captain James Butler who flew 988 missions in Vietnam.”

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