On Wednesday, June 27, the American Veterans Traveling Tribute Vietnam Wall will make its entrance into Parma, and you are invited to witness this emotional event. The Wall is expected to depart the Northbound Rest Area at mile marker 225 on I-71 in Brunswick at approximately 5:30 p.m.

Along with up to 1,000 riders from the motorcycle advocacy group Rolling Thunder, a University Hospitals helicopter will lead the escort to Parma from above while municipalities from Brunswick, Strongsville, Middleburg Heights and finally, Parma, will lead the escort from the ground.

The route - northbound on I-71 until the Bagley Road exit at mile marker 235, then east along Bagley Road to Tri-C West, entering the campus at the W. Pleasant Valley Road entrance.

Mayor Tim DeGeeter said, “I encourage residents to come out along the escort route and welcome the Wall with respect for those who died in this conflict. I’m sure it will be an emotional experience to see the Wall pass on its way to the campus.”

The Traveling Wall will enter the campus under an American Flag hoisted in the air by Parma and Parma Heights firetrucks.

The Traveling Wall will be on display from June 28 at 1 p.m. until July 1 at 1 p.m. The Wall is open 24 hours a day during this time. The official opening ceremony is at 3 p.m. on Thursday, June 28. The event is sponsored by American Legion Post 703.

Volunteers are still needed for the four-day visit of the Wall. If you would like to volunteer, please call Crystal Jardine at 440-570-3054.

Said Rolling Thunder member and Vietnam Veteran John Hohne: “It's very important that people come out to line the route; it's a Hero's Welcome for the 58,479 who didn't make it home from Vietnam.” ... See more

Gratz Jeff Brady you made Twitter
Some Thunder getting ready to Roll. Jeff and his buds from Ohio. #RollingThunder #WashingtonDC