For those who've ever visited the Vietnam War Memorial, you already understand the sentiment.

It's an experience you may never forget.

I'm from a military family. My father spent more than a year there- it seemed much longer.

Growing up on a military base felt, at times, like living in a colony inhabited by women and children.

Moms were everywhere- at little league and meet the teacher night. Fathers were otherwise engaged.

It seemed that a month didn't pass without a fellow classmate's father or relative being reported as missing in action, being taken prisoner or falling in combat. I can recall the General's car visiting the neighbor's home- informing them of the new status... and the neighbors collapsing into each other's arms.

Such sacrifices were made... and seldom did one hear resentful utterances. The protests occurred off base.

On base people maintained a dignified and stoic reserve. Privately we prayed for our loved one's safety- and for a speedy resolve to the conflict.

If you've ever wondered why veterans become misty-eyed at the sight of the flag or the sound of the national anthem- well, one can only assume that their reasons are personal... and based on experiences that most likely reside deep within- never to be fully articulated.

It took me more than two decades to finally visit the wall. I had assumed it would be too overwhelming. However, I finally made the pilgrimage. I felt I owed it to my neighbors and relatives. Their names are among just a few of the more than 58,000 servicemen and women who vanished or perished in Vietnam.

Though it doesn't have the same visceral impact, you're now able to look these names up online, where you can find an interactive Vietnam Veterans Memorial website. This is the place to search the names and discover background information about each person.

http://go.footnote.com/thewall

I highly recommend it.

For those who want a visual approximation to the experience of walking the monument, here you go:



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Chuck Willman's father served in Vietnam while his sister served in Operation Desert Storm. He is an Arizona real estate agent specializing in relocation, investments and first time home buyers.