Of all our nation's conflicts, the Vietnam War evokes the rawest emotions and has galvanized and divided Americans from the turbulent decade it helped define to the present day. In the quest to create a memorial honoring the 58,195 service members lost in our nation's longest and most controversial war, passions ran high. Some believed it would never be built. Yet out of the mayhem, a uniquely moving and beautiful monument emerged. Here is that remarkable story.
Remembering Vietnam: The Wall at 25 presents decorated Vietnam veteran Jan Scruggs, whose vision in 1979 to build a Vietnam memorial was met with cynicism and opposition, and Maya Lin, the Yale undergraduate whose etched granite memorial was once called a black gash of shame, nearly halting the project.
Now, 25 years later, Smithsonian Networks explores the very personal story of The Wall, from its unlikely beginnings to its current status as Washington, D.C.'s most visited monument, drawing millions each year to grieve, pay tribute or heal old wounds. Many leave personal tokens and mementos as offerings.
Remembering Vietnam The Wall at 25 shares not only the history of The Wall, but the compelling stories of veterans who served our country. Discover what this heart wrenching tribute means to those who fought and to the families of those who never returned. And experience what this iconic tribute teaches every American about courage, vision, war and remembrance.