Veterans Memorial Park

(Truth or Consequences NM)
Veterans Memorial Park honors all those that have served in the military to protect the United States of America and to preserve the freedoms we cherish. I had often driven by with thoughts to stop; and finally took the time to see and reflect.

All gave some and some gave all

Veterans Memorial Park

There was a small replica of the national Vietnam Veterans Wall set by the flags of the USA, state, and each branch of the military. Beyond, the Walk of Education followed the shape of the Medal of Honor and included plaques explaining each conflict fought since 1775.

Monument to the fallen

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall Replica

Walk of Education

Walk describing wars

The Hamilton Military Museum had displays of uniforms, gear, and the history of military service. Stories of veterans, events, photos and news clarified the causes and results of the wars. There was more than I could absorb in my short visit.

Museum and medal of honor

Hamilton Military Museum / Purple Heart Medal

World War I room

Displays inside the museum

An anti-aircraft cannon and silhouettes of soldiers guarded the perimeter of the park. And, a  Red Cross ambulance provided a reminder of the dedication, courage, and sacrifice of those that served.

Anti-aircraft gun, mountains

Cannon and sentries on perimeter

Military ambulance

Red Cross Ambulance

As a US Air Force veteran, during the Vietnam War, I’m always humbled by those that gave so much more than myself. I am grateful to have served and survived. Places like this memorial help me to better understand and appreciate those difficult times. We are truly blessed!

Camp: Caballo Lake SP-Riverside CG drycamp
Scene: Monuments, museum

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14 Responses to Veterans Memorial Park

  1. Terri Reed February 7, 2016 at 4:18 am #

    Very interesting posting. War memorials never interested me much; being female I suppose. But, I learned later in life that it’s all in the presentation and stories told by those who were there. If you ever get a chance to visit Kansas City, Missouri, be sure to visit their WW I Museum near the Memorial — it’s unforgettable.

    • Pleinguy February 7, 2016 at 12:43 pm #

      Thanks for the tip about the KC museum. I did some study of WW1 when I was in college, so it would make an interesting stop.

  2. Joe Pitman February 7, 2016 at 7:55 am #

    This will be on our route for sure. Thanks for posting.

    • Pleinguy February 7, 2016 at 12:44 pm #

      Glad you found it helpful to your plans. It was very well done.

  3. Barbara February 7, 2016 at 2:06 pm #

    So nice to see a post from you again. For so long you posted, it seemed, every few days. But I think it’s awesome that you have chosen to slow down and paint more. How is winter in NM (weather wise) and how is the painting going for you?

    • Pleinguy February 8, 2016 at 10:49 am #

      Still adjusting to the slow down. Painting is also slow, as I get into the flow again. Winter in New Mexico has been pretty good; highs 50s-60s and lows 15-30, mostly sunny. It’s beginning to warm up now. Thanks for following.

  4. Peter Scarnati February 8, 2016 at 8:01 am #

    Thank you for your service.

  5. Pleinguy February 8, 2016 at 10:50 am #

    Those are sweet words to a vet, and much appreciated Peter.

  6. Barbara March 6, 2016 at 8:34 pm #

    I realized yesterday it has been a month since your last post. I hope all is well for you. Are you still hanging out around T&C? Any travel plans or plan to still stay put and paint.

    Best,
    Barbara

    • Pleinguy March 15, 2016 at 2:36 pm #

      Yes; very unusual for me. Just relaxing and changing the tempo. A new post will be coming soon.

  7. Gumo March 26, 2016 at 10:01 pm #

    Hoping you are ok and taking it easy. Maybe painting or relaxing. I worry when bloggers go silent for a while. Happy Easter.

    • Pleinguy March 26, 2016 at 11:20 pm #

      I’m doing fine; just hanging out. Should start posting again soon. Thanks for the concern.

  8. Dorothy April 9, 2016 at 10:57 am #

    I enjoy military museums also. Having served many years in the Air Force Reserves – its interesting to see what they used in different eras. Seeing that female in uniform makes me remember how uncomfortable the material was; hot & itchy! Must have gotten pretty “odiferous” in the days when you couldn’t get to a cleaner!

    Thanks for your service! (with my last surgery employees could see what my insurance is – so said that to me in the hospital. Was strange hearing it, having been out for 21 yrs.)

    • Pleinguy April 9, 2016 at 10:16 pm #

      I always learn something new at the museums. Know what you mean about the uniforms. And, thanks for your service too.

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