|
The Wall That Heals exhibition features a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Like the original Wall, the replica is erected in a chevron-shape and complete with the more than 58,000 names of those killed or missing in action from the conflict. When new names are added to the Memorial in Washington, D.C., The Wall That Heals is updated as soon as possible.
As on The Wall in Washington, D.C., the names are listed alphabetically by date of casualty on The Wall That Heals. Beginning at the center, the names start on the East Wall (right-hand side) working their way out to the end of that wing, picking up again at the far end of the West Wall (left-hand side) and working their way back in to the center. Thus, the beginning and ending of the conflict are joined at the center.
The replica is constructed of powder-coated aluminum, supported by an aluminum frame, and is made up of 24 individual panels, each containing six columns of names. The panels join together to form the nearly 250 feet wide structure. Each of the replica's two wings is approximately 123-feet long and meets at an angle of 121 degrees, rising to a height of approximately five feet at their apex. Each name is laser-etched into the black reflective panels.
A database of names and their precise arrangement on The Wall had to be created to engrave the panels. The database was then linked to a computer-operated laser system developed solely for the purpose of engraving The Wall That Heals. The system etched image areas of a specific size, requiring remarkably precise calibration across a wide field to match partially formed letters and lines.
The Wall That Heals is transported from community to community by a 73-foot semitruck and trailer which converts to a museum.
|