By JANINE COOPER
Observer Staff
Nov. 8, 2007

Twenty five years ago, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was dedicated in

Washington, D.C., and became one of the most visited historical sites in the District.

Thousands flock every year to the Memorial, more commonly known as “The Wall” to pay their respects to those who served and lost their lives in the Vietnam War.

This week, events will be held to commemorate The Wall’s dedication. The events will be hosted by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund.

The opening ceremony, a reading of the names of those lost, was held last night.

Volunteers began reading the names of the fallen soldiers.

One of them, Vietnam veteran Jay Snyder, served in Vietnam for a year.He volunteered to read names because a number of people he knew and served with are listed on the wall.

“I was in combat for a year. Lost a number of men. Was wounded twice myself. It was a difficult experience,” Snyder said.

Observer photo by Janine Cooper.

List of Events:

Nov. 7-12, 2007
Reading of the Names
5:00 a.m. to Midnight

Nov. 11, 2007
Veterans’ Day Observance at The Wall
1:00 p.m.

All events take place at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. For more information about The Wall and these events, click here.

Read more about The Wall’s place in American history here.