The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. honors the American men and women who served and sacrificed their lives in the Vietnam War. The memorial consists of the Three Soldiers statue, the Vietnam Women's Memorial, and its best-known part, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall etched with the names of more than 58,000 war dead or missing. The black, granite wall, often called "The Wall That Heals," is highly polished so that its reflective surface lets visitors see themselves as they honor fallen soldiers.
How to get to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, located near the National Mall, is accessible by car, public transportation, and bike. General parking is available along Ohio Drive SW between the Lincoln Memorial and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Handicap parking is available on Daniel French Drive SW. The nearest Metro station is Foggy Bottom/George Washington University at 23rd and I Streets, NW.
Best and worst time to go to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Cherry blossom time in early spring is the best time to visit the memorial, which is open 24 hours a day. It will be crowded, but the white and pink cherry blossoms make the visit particularly beautiful and joyful. Weekdays will be less crowded than weekends; early morning is particularly tranquil. Avoid major spring and summer national holidays when everyone visits Washington, D.C.
Admission to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Admission is free.
Must see/do at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Make a paper rubbing of a loved one's name engraved on the wall. Catalogs, with the location of each name, are available near the entrances of the memorial.
Other places to visit near the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is ringed by some of Washington's most famous landmarks -- Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and World War II Memorial. If you're in the mood for a hike, cross the nearby Memorial Bridge, and visit Arlington National Cemetery.
Insider tip for visitors to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Bring tissues. Walking the Memorial Wall is a uniquely stirring, emotional experience. Be prepared for whatever feelings well up – sadness, reverence, gratitude for service and sacrifice.
Author's bio: Lisa Kaplan Gordon is a writer who lives in McLean, Virginia. Visit her website: www.lisakaplangordon.com