HISTORY REMEMBERED

Vietnam War veteran George Nelson explains some of the history of the war to the crowd gathered for The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall memorial service Friday, October 4. The wall was on display in Blue Ridge from October 3 to 7.

Members of the Junior ROTC program at Mountain Area Christian Academy were among the crowd welcoming The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall to Blue Ridge Thursday. Shown are, from left, Chase Roll, Wesley Tanner, Reagan Hooper, Ayden Gunsallus, Dawson Long, Willie Nickerson, Vance Coffey, Elijah Carroll, Ben Bargeron and Elizabeth Lee. The group also helped construct the Wall, which stood beside the Blue Ridge United Methodist Church from Thursday through Monday.

This American Legion Rider was one of the 153 motorcyclists who escorted The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall from Jasper to Blue Ridge Thursday morning.

“You’re the future.” That’s the message Junior ROTC members Wesley Tanner, Chase Roll and Dawson Long, from left, heard from veteran Sam Chadot of American Legion Post 82 in Ellijay.

Veteran Bob Renneke was one of many Patriot Guard Riders who took time to visit with Junior ROTC members from Mountain Area Christian Academy. With Renneke, facing camera, are, from left, Vance Coffey, Ayden Gunsallas, the group’s advisor, SMSGT Harold Bargeron.

Veteran Manny Lozano salutes the American flag as the North Georgia Honor Guard posted the colors during the The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall memorial service.

North Georgia Honor Guard members Steve Strickland, left, and Richard Crosley carry the boots, helmet, dog tags and rifle for the tribute to the fallen soldier during the The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall memorial service.

Vietnam Veteran and Fannin County Board of Education member Bobby Bearden salutes the fallen during the playing of Taps at The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall memorial service Friday, October 4.

Georgia Speaker of the House David Ralston discusses the importance of honoring the fallen soldiers of the Vietnam War during The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall memorial service. The wall visited Blue Ridge October 3 through the 7. News Observer photo/ Sydney Taylor

Georgia State Senator Steve Gooch speaks to a crowd of The The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall memorial service attendees Friday, October 4. News Observer photo/ Sydney Taylor

Jim Rozelle finds the names of fallen Vietnam War soldiers following the The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall memorial service.

Fannin County Middle School student Haley Thompson visits the The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall with her fellow classmates during its residency in Blue Ridge.