The Wall That Heals Visits the Outer Banks

The Wall that Heals

We're honored to announce that The Wall That Heals, a traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will be coming to Dare County this fall. See this magnificent traveling memorial from November 16 to November 19, 2023, at the Soundside Event Site in Nags Head for a moving and impactful experience.

Brought to you by the Dare County Veterans Advisory Council, this free exhibit serves as a powerful tribute to those who have sacrificed for our nation. Take a moment to pay your respects, reflect, and connect with the rich history that surrounds us. Let's come together as a community to honor and remember the heroes who have shaped our country's story. We look forward to sharing this meaningful journey with you.

What is The Wall That Heals?

On Veterans Day in 1996, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) introduced a traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial from Washington, D.C. The Wall That Heals has journeyed to nearly 700 communities across the United States since its dedication, sharing the healing essence of the Memorial with millions.

By bringing The Wall to communities nationwide, we offer a unique opportunity for the souls commemorated on the Memorial to be once again surrounded by the embrace of family and friends in the familiarity of home. This mobile exhibit has become a source of strength and courage for thousands of veterans who may have hesitated to confront The Wall, enabling them to embark on the healing process within the supportive embrace of their own communities.

At the heart of The Wall That Heals are two vital components: the replica of The Wall and the mobile Education Center.

During its 2021 season, The Wall That Heals traveled over 13,000 miles, making stops in 26 communities across the nation. Escorted by a convoy of over 3,000 vehicles, the exhibit touched the lives of nearly 200,000 visitors, spreading the healing legacy of The Wall. Additionally, guided tours were provided to more than 12,000 students, further contributing to the educational impact of this moving experience.

When Can I Visit the Wall?

The free exhibit will be open to the public 24 hours a day from November 16, 2023 through November 19, 2023 at the Soundside Event Site, which is located at 6800 South Croatan Highway in Nags Head, NC.

Schedule of Events

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

• Motorcycle Escort for The Wall That Heals from Columbia to Nags Head
• The Wall That Heals escort arrives in Dare County at approximately 2 p.m.

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

• Set up with soft opening at completion.
• First volunteer shift begins at 2 p.m.
• Volunteer training begins at 6 p.m.

Thursday, November 16, 2023

• Official opening day
• Opening Ceremony begins at 10 a.m.
• The Wall That Heals is open to the public 24 hours per day.   

Friday, November 17, 2023

• The Wall That Heals is open to the public 24 hours per day.
• Candlelight Ceremony begins at 6 p.m.

Saturday, November 18, 2023

• The Wall That Heals is open to the public 24 hours per day. 
• Vietnam Veterans Walk to the Wall at 11 a.m.
  A “Walk to the Wall” will take place at 11 a.m. to honor the Vietnam veterans who are in attendance. Following remarks made by U.S. Army Vietnam veteran Barry “Fuzzy” Holt, Vietnam veterans will gather at The Wall That Heals’ Mobile Education Center before making their journey across the site to visit The Wall That Heals together. Please arrive at least five minutes early.

Sunday, November 19, 2023

• The Wall That Heals is open to the public until 2 p.m.
• Closing Ceremony at 1:45 p.m.
• Volunteers begin wall breakdown at 2 p.m.