Glenn Thompson: “Over the weekend, I had the opportunity to participate in both the opening and the closing ceremonies for the traveling…”

“Over the weekend, I had the opportunity to participate in both the opening and the closing ceremonies for the traveling version of the Vietnam War Memorial Wall. The traveling wall was in State College last Thursday through Sunday, and it was a truly moving experience for all those who visited. The theme for Centre County was ``Welcome Home.'' We all know that in many instances, our Vietnam veterans did not receive a warm welcome home when they returned from war. This is a scar on our history and one that we are working to heal. The traveling wall serves as a reminder of the efforts to promote liberty and freedom that our Vietnam veterans put forth. It finally recognizes their struggles and thanks them for their service after years of underappreciation. Mr. Speaker, the wall tells the story of so many Americans. They were sons and daughters. They were our friends and our neighbors. They are American heroes. It is never too late to honor our veterans to ensure that they receive the recognition that they deserve. ____________________”