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By Chuck N. Baker 
 
(North Las Vegas, NV)– An American Veterans Traveling Tribute was on display in North Las Vegas May 18-21. The tribute is a smaller version of Washington’s “Vietnam Memorial Wall” containing the names of thousands of the nation’s men and women who perished in the Southeast Asian War. The display was a major part of “Patriot Fest,” a three-day event honoring veterans and their families. 
 
“Mom and Apple Pie” was once a much used catch phrase that identified things that are uniquely American — Labor Day, holiday barbecue parties, muscle cars and bikini swim suits, to name but a few of the fully serious and much lighter fare individuals often sought out. Not that those things have gone away. But as time moves on, other items of interest are added that are strictly American; like the Traveling Tribute. 
 
History reminds us when veterans of the Vietnam War came home, they did not receive a warm welcome. But it’s also a fact that society has long turned that corner. Welcoming our nation’s warriors is kept separate from politics. Today Americans who fought in Vietnam are recognized and honored across the nation for the sacrifices they made. 
 
Often referred to simply as “The Wall,” there is a smaller version that travels the nation, and is put on display in cities nationwide. At Craig Ranch Regional Park, “The Wall” was a part of the larger “Patriot Fest” that included the laying of wreaths for POW/MIA and Gold Star families. The three day event included live music from several bands including “Love and Theft,” and an “Eagles” tribute from the musical group, “The Long Run.” Military displays, commercial and non-profit vendors and a 5K “Run & Fun Walk” joined with a “Cars & Stripes” display of classic automobiles. Individuals came together to honor the country’s military who served in all wars. A bounce house and other activities for children helped to round out the family friendly event. 
 
Robert Huston is the driver who moves “The Wall” around the country. He said his home is in Sydney, Ohio, but he brought “The Wall” to Nevada from Texas. Formally known as the “American Veterans Traveling Tribute,” he said his next stop will be in Pasco, Washington. 
 
More than 120 individuals signed up for the 5K “Red, White & Blue Run and Fun Walk.” At least one toddler took part while being pushed in a stroller by her mother. A spokesperson for the event explained that while attendees came from the Las Vegas community, they were joined by individuals from the entire Southwestern region. They came to “Honor, respect and pay tribute to all branches of our armed forces and their families.” Proceeds from the 5K were to be presented to the Nellis Support Team, a non-profit volunteer group that supports airmen at the local airbase. 
 
The Traveling “Wall” is a 370-feet long replica of the one in Washington, D.C. The 80 percent scale reproduction stands 8-feet tall at its apex, and contains the thousands of names of those Americans who fell in Vietnam. It’s a veteran-owned project and is not government sponsored or affiliated. Funding comes through sponsorship fees, donations and sales of merchandise at events. According to its website, the display works closely with the Traveling Wall Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Volunteers were on hand to help the public with a guidebook containing all the names that are on “The Wall,” along with the locations of the names on the various panels.  
 
For more information, visit “The Traveling Wall” website: http://www.travelingwall.us/