TEMPLE — Today, Texas Land Commissioner and Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham M.D. reminds Texans and Veterans that The American Veterans Traveling Tribute's (AVTT) Traveling Vietnam Wall and Cost of Freedom Tribute will be on display for the public at the William R. Courtney Texas State Veterans Home (TSVH) in Temple from Thursday, March 14 to Friday, March 15, 2024.

"Remembering and respecting our Veterans for the selfless sacrifices they have made is one of our greatest responsibilities as citizens of this state and nation," said Commissioner Buckingham. "We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. The American Veterans Traveling Tribute offers Texans, alongside Texas Veterans, the chance to pay their respects to our nation's fallen warriors and gain a deeper appreciation for all those who have answered the call to service."

The Tribute Wall on display at the William R. Courtney TSVH will be the larger version of the traveling Tribute Wall at 360 feet long. It includes the Traveling Vietnam Wall and tributes to other conflicts and attacks. This incredible Tribute Wall has traveled across the country to promote the remembrance of all those who have served our country.

The Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. is known as "The Wall That Heals." However, not everyone can travel to experience the powerful black granite walls inscribed with the names of the men and women who gave their lives or remain missing. In 2005, retired Lieutenant Colonel Don Allen, who is a U.S. Army and Vietnam Veteran, founded The American Veterans Traveling Tribute with the mission to bring "The Wall That Heals" to his fellow Veterans. 

American Veterans Traveling Tribute Schedule at William R. Courtney TSVH:

Opening Ceremony: Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 10 am

Master of Ceremonies: Travis Willis, Outreach and Marketing Coordinator, VLB

Welcome: Karen Tucker, Wellness Enrichment Director, TSVH

Prayer: William Sterling, Chaplain, TSVH 

Pledge of Allegiance: Tim White, Administrator, TSVH 

National Anthem: Performed by Fort Cavazos Army Band

Presentation of Colors: Performed by Fort Cavazos Honor Guard

Guest Speaker: Colonel (Ret.) Thomas "Jerry" Curtis, U.S. Air Force

Closing Remarks: Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Don Allen, U.S. Army, AVTT CEO

TAPS: Performed by Fort Cavazos Army Band 

Retirement of Colors: Performed by Fort Cavazos Honor Guard 

Armed Forces Medley: Performed by Fort Cavazos Army Band