To put things into perspective, it is NOT a museum but it was merely a section of a park which has been dedicated to the people who died during the Vietnam war. There were more than fifty-eight thousand Americans who died during the chaotic time because of the way and this tight little corner in the park is just not enough...well, technically, there can never be enough.

We were not aware of the controversy surrounding this tourist attractions but were suddenly made aware of how important this little place plays in naming and keeping the memories of these people alive. There were a couple of inspiring statues of the brave soldiers and it simply gave us goose bumps just walking past.

As you walk along the wall, you will be reading aloud those names and trying to connect with them or think about what they were doing, how old they were, how scared and composed they were when they were right smack in the middle of war zone. You might even share a common name or surname too and that is kind of spooky. You will start thinking about how lucky you are with what you have...overall, a very enlightening and ennobling experience, really.

There are sometimes flowers and wreaths placed along the wall placed by those who were left behind. Whenever you see such a scene, it simply brings tears to your eyes and start thanking your lucky stars. After the stop, we just have to stop and reflect on life a little and wonder what it was like back then. It must have been really tough for the ones who died and the ones who were left behind.

It is definitely worth a visit since it costs you nothing and leaves you with wonderful memories.

Don't forget to get your hands on a good Washington DC charter bus rental package if you are traveling in a group, though.

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Vietnam Veterans Memorial (Washington DC)

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 8am till 11.45pm

Contact: +1 202 426 6841

website: http://www.nps.gov/vive/index.htm