The Moving Wall is a replica of the wall in Washington, D.C. that makes it way to Wickham annually – usually around April – May for a week stay. During this time the park is crawling with Vets, bikers, miltary and lots of events, so do not expect to find a camping spot open. Over the years it has grown to be more of a teaching tool with equiptment on display and Vets to talk about it. Tents may have art work, pictures or even memorials to K9’s that died during the war, you can even climb on an old boat and sit in a helicopter. This is a great way to show the younger generation what the military used during the Vietnam War and what they lacked. The also have bands play old firmilar war and peace songs well into the night.
In 2002 my 3 year old son wore his Uncle Sam’s Halloween costume that was made for him the year before, combined with his Army fatigues from Fort Bragg (where our nephew was) and carried his (real) ascutic guitar stapped on his back (a Christmas gift). We stayed long past any kid events but weren’t ready to leave. Kaden took out his little guitar and jammed along with the band to the side of the crowd when I was approached by an old rocker. He told me the members of the band, Molly Hachet, wanted Kaden to join them on stage. Within a minute Kaden and I were being shuffled through the crowd to the front of the amitheather where I ducked down but close to him. I turned to look at the sea of people watching and thought “no way will he do anything with all these faces staring at him”. To my amazement I turned back to see Kaden scan the crowd, look down at his guiatar and jam like he was a Van Halen. The people went wild, drunk and all, they loved it. Unfortuanly being the mom, I had the camera and never took a picture because I was so nervous for him. After we were led back to our area and soon had people asking to take a photo with Kaden. That year his photo was taken near a little jeep that goes around with the wall (?), it still can be found displayed. Whether you make it to Wickham or somewhere else to see the Wall, stop and talk to a Vet, listen to their stories and thank them for their service.
http://www.floridaveteransreunion.com/
Will be at Wickham Park April 19-26, 2009
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