A traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., is making its way through Newton today as it heads to Brooklyn, Iowa, where it will be on display later this week.
According to Newton Police Captain Chris Wing, the three-quarter-scale replica, known as The Wall That Heals, departed the Iowa Speedway at approximately 2 p.m. on a 53-foot semi-trailer. The memorial includes 140 panels replicating the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, along with an educational exhibit honoring those who served.
The procession is traveling west on Rusty Wallace Drive before heading south on Highway S-74 South, continuing west on South 44th Avenue East to Highway 14. From there, it proceeds north to First Avenue West in Newton before continuing west through the city on Highway 6 into Poweshiek County and ultimately to Brooklyn.
Captain Wing encouraged residents to gather along the route to welcome the memorial and pay tribute to Vietnam veterans.
He said officers will temporarily stop traffic at major intersections as the convoy passes while allowing traffic to continue through smaller intersections when possible. Wing noted that the procession is a rare event and said it offers the community an opportunity to salute veterans and show their appreciation for their service.
The Newton Police Department estimates it will take the memorial approximately 20 minutes to reach First Avenue West. The escort includes about 100 motorcycles, along with deputies from the Jasper County and Poweshiek County Sheriff’s Offices, who will accompany the memorial to its destination.
The Wall That Heals will be on display at the BGM High School football field in Brooklyn from Thursday through Sunday. The exhibit will be open 24 hours a day and is free for the public to visit.
