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 from May 22–25. The exhibit will be open 24 hours a day and free to the public.
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 visitors remember service members.
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. 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.
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. Volunteers will also support ceremonies and special moments during the weekend while helping create a respectful, welcoming space.
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.
Motorcade Escort Schedule:
All times are approximate:
- Avoca: 2 PM departure, gather at East County Fairgrounds
- Hancock: 2:08 - 2:10 PM, near corner of Main Street and Highway 59
- Oakland: 2:14 - 2:18 PM, Oakland Community Center
- Carson: 2:23 - 2:25 PM, park at Community Center, wave from Highway 92
- Treynor: 2:35 - 2:40 PM, along Highway 92, Treynor Veterans Memorial near Community Center
- Edge of Council Bluffs: 2:50 - 2:55 PM
- Bus barn at Lewis Central: 2:58 - 3 PM
- Behind Lewis Central: 3:02 - 3:05 PM
Tours, Donations, and Sponsorships
Tour inquiries can be made by contacting the Veterans Service Office at 712-328-5797. 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
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.
