This Memorial Day weekend, an unforgettable traveling memorial is coming to Pottawattamie County—offering our community a powerful space to reflect, remember, and honor. The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will be on display at Lewis Central High School in Council Bluffs from May 22–25. The exhibit will be open 24 hours a day and free to the public throughout the weekend.
A Moving Tribute to Service and Sacrifice
The Wall That Heals honors the more than three million Americans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Vietnam War. The Wall bears the names of men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice, creating a place for visitors to connect with history in a deeply personal way. As visitors walk toward the center point of the 375-foot Wall, they’ll experience the memorial rising above them, mirroring the design and emotional impact of the original. Guests can also do name rubbings, a meaningful tradition that helps families and visitors remember individual service members.
Alongside the Wall, visitors can explore a mobile Education Center housed in a 53-foot trailer that opens into a powerful, museum-style exhibit. Inside, you’ll find digital photo displays like Hometown Heroes, which highlights local service members whose names appear on the Wall, and In Memory, which honors Vietnam veterans who returned home and later passed away.
The Education Center also features videos and timelines that explain the war’s impact and how the Memorial transformed the way our nation recognizes and supports veterans. Artifacts and educational displays—modeled after items left at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.—help bring personal stories to life, along with a map of Vietnam and additional context that helps visitors better understand the history and lasting legacy of the Vietnam War.
How to Get Involved
Community support is a big part of what makes this event possible, and there are several meaningful ways to get involved. Volunteer registration is now open, and help is needed throughout the weekend—from assisting with Wall and Education Center set-up and teardown to staffing overnight and daytime shifts, since the exhibit will be open 24/7. Volunteers will also support ceremonies and special moments during the weekend while helping create a respectful, welcoming space for every visitor who comes to reflect, remember, and honor those who served.
Motorcycle Motorcade Escort
Motorcycle riders are invited to take part in a special tribute as the exhibit arrives in the area. On Wednesday, May 20, 2026, riders will gather at the East Pottawattamie County Fairgrounds in Avoca and join a motorcade escort bringing The Wall That Heals to Lewis Central High School—a powerful moment of honor and remembrance for those who served and sacrificed.
Tours, Donations, and Sponsorships
Tour inquiries can be made by contacting the Veterans Service Office at 712-328-5797, with more details coming soon. Those who wish to support the exhibit financially can make a donation through the Pottawattamie Veteran Service Office Fund, with all contributions managed by the Community Foundation for Western Iowa to ensure transparency and responsible stewardship.
Plan to Visit
Whether you’re a veteran, a family member, a student, or a visitor learning for the first time, The Wall That Heals creates a shared space for reflection—one that stays with you long after you leave. Mark your calendar for May 22–25, and plan to experience this meaningful tribute right here in Council Bluffs! Learn more about the national exhibit by clicking the button below.
