Farmers Weekly Review

By Karen Haave

The Vietnam Memorial Traveling Wall was the centerpiece of a special 150th birthday weekend in Monee, drawing hundreds of visitors over the four-day exhibit.

Dozens of volunteers worked to plan the display and assemble the 375-foot-long replica of the monument in Washington, D.C. Many more veterans, scouts and police officers offered time to serve as guardians so that it was never left unattended.

“Monee should be very proud of the way we honored the Vietnam Veterans,” Monee Police Chief Scott Koerner said. “It was a humbling event for all who attended, volunteered and secured the Wall.

“Everything went great at the Wall. No issues at all. The Veteran volunteers and MPD were on site 24/7 to make sure the site was secure and anyone attending would have assistance ready at hand.

“Every time I stopped by, whether it was 7 a.m. or 1 a.m., there were anywhere from 10 to 25 people visiting the Wall.”

Memorable moments during the weekend included Opening Ceremonies, with keynote speaker Allen Lynch, a Medal of Honor recipient.

According to the Allen J. Lynch Veterans Medal of Honor Foundation website, he earned the Medal of Honor after serving as a radiotelephone operator in the forward element in Company D on an operation near the village of My An, when his unit became heavily engaged and outnumbered by an enemy force. Observing three wounded comrades lying exposed to enemy fire, Sgt. Lynch dashed across 50 meters of open ground through a hail of enemy fire to administer aid.

When his company was forced to withdraw by the superior firepower of the enemy, Sgt. Lynch stayed behind to aid his comrades at the risk of his life rather than abandon them. Alone, he defended his isolated position for two hours against the advancing enemy. Using only his rifle and a grenade, he stopped them just short of his trench, killing five.

Again disregarding his safety in the face of hostile fire, he crossed 70 meters of exposed terrain five times to carry his wounded comrades to a more secure area. Once he had assured their comfort and safety, he located the counter attacking friendly company to assist in directing the attack and evacuating the three casualties.

In his speech, Lynch spoke about the sacrifice of veterans in general and Vietnam Veterans in particular, noting their motto “Never again will one generation of veterans desert another.”

Of the more than 58,000 names engraved on the Moving Wall, Lynch noted, “Race doesn’t separate those listed on the wall; they all died serving our country.”

Touching on current political views, he said, “We cannot let politicians divide us, we are all Americans first. “Both political parties have let us down, being more concerned about winning than what is good for America and Americans.
“I don’t care who you vote for,” he added, “just know for whom you vote.”

Also during the Opening Ceremonies, Monee Mayor Therese Bogs paid tribute to the veterans and to the memorial wall.

“The Vietnam War was a divisive and tumultuous time in our nation’s history, yet the Moving Wall stands as a unifying force, a place where veterans, families and all Americans can come together to honor and remember.

“It serves as a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that the sacrifices made in Vietnam are never forgotten.

“For those who served, the Moving Wall offers a space to reflect and heal, to find solace among comrades who understand the unique bond forged in battle. For younger generations, it serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of cherishing the freedoms we enjoy today.

“As we reflectively walk alongside this wall, in its hallowed shadows, we are reminded that freedom comes at a cost. These brave men and women answered the call of duty with unwavering commitment, and each name represents a life cut short, dreams left unfulfilled, and families forever changed.

“As we reflect on the Moving Wall, let us remember the purpose it serves. It is not merely a physical structure but a symbol of collective memory and gratitude. It reminds us that the price of freedom is paid by many, and it challenges us to honor that sacrifice with respect and empathy.

“So as we stand before the Moving Wall, let us pledge to carry forward the legacy of those who gave everything for their country. Let us ensure they remain in our hearts and minds, inspiring us to uphold the principles of freedom and justice for which they fought.”

Monee Village Trustee Michael Wilson said the Wall offers critical lessons to current and future generations.

“The Wall is an educational piece that provides a first-hand look at the sacrifices made by previous generations, instilling respect and understanding of military service,” he said.

“It is a site for contemplation and connection, where silence and reverence are deeply appreciated.

“The significance of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial transcends its physical structure. It stands as a testament to the importance of honoring those who served, and recognizing the complexities and costs of war. Let us never forget the fallen.”

Karen Haave is a freelance reporter. Photos by Karen Haave.