Jan - via email 5/16 (edited)

I think Vietnam has been and continues to be a difficult time for vets and all of us who grew up with those of you who fought so gallantly.  I graduated next to Ronnie McBeth and frequently think of him.  I've rubbed his name at the wall in DC and also at the traveling exhibit here in Uvalde where I stood "guard" for eight hours one night.  I just cannot resist somehow and yet it never takes away the pain I feel about those years.  I cannot in any possible way know the anguish of you who served in Vietnam, but I imagine it must be hundreds of times worse than I've ever felt kneeling before that wall weeping for the loss of my childhood friends.  I do know that I honor and respect your service and have earnestly prayed for your comfort and peace all these years.  I never see a vet (usually I spy a tattoo, a bumper sticker or a hat that identifies the connection) that I don't walk up and thank him for his service...usually, he is overwhelmed and neither of us can speak many words without tears, but I have to make the effort because you all were treated so badly when you came home.  I'm so sorry...I wish I'd been older and wiser and known to organize a decent welcome...it was all mishandled terribly.  The lack of a proper "welcome home" for returning vets weighs heavily on those of us who went on with our lives at home - we had no idea what you had gone through and what you would face upon returning home.  Please forgive us. 

I only know our six children have been immersed in the knowledge I've gained since.  They not only honor, respect and support our servicemen, they know they owe them recognition and gratitude…Our youngest child was 9 years old and we were Christmas shopping in San Antonio.  We peeked into an art gallery briefly and then headed to the food court when we realized she was not with us.  We ran back quickly and found her sitting on the floor in front of a huge picture.  I told her we need to go and she said, "But, Mama, I want this picture."  I took a closer look.  It was the picture of the man with his jacket off, leaning on the Vietnam Wall with the soldier's reflection...I asked her if she knew what it was?  She replied, "Yes, Mama, he's crying because his friend died in Vietnam."  "Becca, why would you want this picture?"  "Because we should never forget those who died to keep us free, like your friend."  Well, of course, she got that picture for Christmas and still has it today at 28 years old.

I just visited the website and you did an outstanding job….I will be going back to the site and making a donation and look forward to visiting Austin and seeing the site first hand when it opens. Again outstanding job.

I am also struggling with PTSD. Vietnam is with me every day. Best of luck to you. I attend a support group of Vietnam Vets every Tuesday which has helped a lot. IF YOU KNOW A VET SHAKE HIS HAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Richard - via Facebook 5/25