March 29 - It was announced by the Jackson County Moving Wall Committee that a contract has been signed by the organization and that the Vietnam Moving Wall Memorial will visit Maquoketa, Iowa from June 23, 2011 to June 27, 2011. "We are honored that The Moving Wall will visit Jackson County and appreciate the efforts of the Committee members in bringing this very special experience to Maquoketa,"
said Ronald Horan Jr., Committee President. "The memorial helps to bring healing to veterans, families and friends of those who died or are missing in Vietnam, especially those who may not have the opportunity to see the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington DC." "It is a great honor to be chosen to host the Moving Wall," said Jean Davidsaver, Secretary - Treasurer of The Moving Wall Committee. "It is our intent to present the Wall in such a way as to preserve the solemn nature of the memorial while providing an opportunity for our young people to learn more about this important part of our history and the great sacrifices made by our armed forces to preserve our freedoms." "The Moving Wall" is the half-size replica of the Washington, DC Vietnam Veterans Memorial and has been touring the country for more than twenty years. When John Devitt, "The Moving Wall" creator, attended the 1982 dedication in Washington, he felt the positive power of "The Wall." He vowed to share that experience with those who did not have the opportunity to go to Washington. Vietnam veteran volunteers built "The Moving Wall" and it went on display for the first time in Tyler, Texas in October of 1984. The Jackson County Moving Wall Committee was formed by Baldwin AmVets Post 64, the Jackson County Republican Central Committee, Bellevue American Legion Post 273 and the Jackson County Historical Society to bring this special exhibit to Jackson County. The Committee is still looking for groups, businesses and individuals to join the Committee, help defray the cost of the event and volunteer to assist with event activities. Those interested may contact Ronald Horan Jr. at 563-652-4998 or Jean Davidsaver at 563-872-3705.
