The Official Traveling Memorial
The Wall That Heals is a three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., and the only traveling wall that carries official recognition from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF).
Since its dedication in 1996, The Wall That Heals has traveled across the country, bringing the memorial experience to millions of Americans who are unable to visit Washington, D.C. The exhibit allows veterans, families, and communities to come together to honor and remember those who served and sacrificed.
Standing 375 feet in length and 7.5 feet tall at its highest point, The Wall That Heals features the names of 58,281 service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam. Like the original Memorial, The Wall That Heals is erected in a chevron shape, with each wing consisting of 72 panels.
History & Impact
The Original Wall Dedicated
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial was dedicated in Washington, D.C., designed by Maya Lin. It quickly became one of the most visited memorials in the nation's capital.
The Wall That Heals Begins
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund created The Wall That Heals as a half-scale replica, bringing the healing power of the Memorial to communities across America.
Larger Replica Unveiled
A new, larger three-quarter scale replica was unveiled, providing visitors with a more accurate representation of the original Memorial's size and impact.
Coming to Reynolds, Indiana
This June, Reynolds will have the honor of hosting The Wall That Heals, providing our community the opportunity to pay tribute to those who served in Vietnam.
The Exhibit Experience
Three powerful components make up The Wall That Heals exhibit
Free tours are available for youth and adult groups. The ceremonial space hosts opening and closing events, and Taps is played nightly.
The Wall Replica
The centerpiece of the exhibit, this three-quarter scale replica stands 375 feet long and features all 58,281 names of service members who made the ultimate sacrifice. The black granite panels are arranged in chronological order by date of casualty, just like the original Memorial.
- Length: 375 feet
- Height: 7.5 feet at apex
- Panels: 144 total (72 per wing)
- Names: 58,281 service members
Mobile Education Center
A 53-foot trailer that serves as an interactive learning center. Inside, visitors will find educational exhibits about the Vietnam War, items left at the original Memorial, photos, letters, and information about the prisoners of war and those missing in action.
- Size: 53-foot trailer
- Exhibits: Historical timeline & artifacts
- Resources: POW/MIA information
- Interactive: Digital displays
Ceremonial Space
An adjacent area provides space for opening and closing ceremonies and special events. This sacred space allows for reflection, remembrance, and healing for veterans, families, and community members.
- Ceremonies: Opening & closing events
- Reflection: Quiet contemplation area
- Gatherings: Community & veteran groups
The Vietnam War
More than 3 million Americans served in the Vietnam War, with over 58,281 making the ultimate sacrifice.
The Vietnam War lasted from 1955 to 1975, making it one of the longest military conflicts in American history. U.S. military involvement escalated in the 1960s, with peak troop levels reaching over 500,000 in 1968-1969.
The average age of service members who died in Vietnam was just 23 years old. Many were drafted, while others volunteered to serve their country during a tumultuous time in American history.
Unlike veterans of previous wars, many Vietnam veterans did not receive the recognition and appreciation they deserved upon returning home. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and now The Wall That Heals, helps to honor their service and provides a place for healing and remembrance.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) is the nonprofit organization that built the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (The Wall) in Washington, D.C., and continues to preserve the legacy of all who answered our nation's call to duty in Vietnam.
Founded in 1979 by Jan Scruggs, a Vietnam veteran, VVMF's mission is to honor and preserve the legacy of service and educate all generations about the impact of the Vietnam War. The Wall That Heals program embodies this mission by bringing the memorial experience directly to communities nationwide.
Learn More at VVMF.orgExperience The Wall That Heals
Join us in Reynolds, Indiana this June to honor those who served and remember those who gave all.