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For immediate release:
12:00p.m. – Thursday, July 1, 2021

In June 2021 the American Legion, Post 16 hosted the Moving Vietnam Wall in Walsenburg, Co.

The half-sized replica of the Vietnam memorial in Washington, DC has been traveling throughout the states since 1984. This attraction started when Army Veteran, John Devitt “felt the power of the wall” while visiting the original in 1982. Devitt was determined to create a replica that could be moved anywhere, so everyone could have the opportunity to view the wall and honor those who sacrificed their lives during the Vietnam war.

Everywhere the wall travels to people are overcome with emotion while viewing over 58 thousand names listed across the aluminum panels. Each name presented on the wall represents a life lost during the war.

“The wall is sometimes referred to as the “healing” wall. Vietnam vets will come to the sight to touch the names of their fallen brothers at the exact time they died. This act alone can bring some closure to those who fought during the war,” said David Rogers, Secretary of Finances at The American Legion, Post 16 Huerfano and Navy Veteran.

For over 36 years the wall has traveled across the United States. Today, there are two walls that travel annually from April to November.

The American Legion had planned for the arrival of the wall since before the COVID-19 pandemic, but much like other events this project was postponed.

The delay was unfortunate, but thanks to The American Legion and event donors, southern Colorado residents were finally able to experience “the power of the wall.”

San Isabel Electric and Basin Electric Power Cooperative are proud to have helped bring this attraction to Walsenburg, CO. Vietnam and Army veterans, thank you for your service.

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As a not-for-profit cooperative utility, San Isabel Electric provides affordable, reliable electricity with exceptional service to communities throughout southern Colorado. Serving nearly 20,000 member-owners and 24,000 meters, San Isabel Electric has been keeping the lights on since 1938. We don’t just serve communities. We are part of communities.