The Wall serves as a way for Vietnam veterans to heal, connect to fallen brothers/sisters, and pay respects.  For many veterans they may never make the trip to Washington DC to see the real wall: a traveling tribute gives them that closure opportunity.  For families who have a friend, relative, or acquaintance whose name is on the wall, it gives them the same opportunity they may never have otherwise. The American Veteran's Traveling Tribute is also a learning tool for students: many students may know very little about the Vietnam War and we invite schools to have field trips to learn about the Wall and the Vietnam War as well.