Vietnam War Memorial — Local services in Houston

EVERY SUNDAY AT 10:30 A.M. Local culture: moving and memorable. For families, singles, everyone.

An estimated 150,000 Vietnamese live in greater Houston. Each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. veterans of the Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam) gather for a ceremony of remembrance.

THE LIVE CEREMONY

The Vietnamese-Americans at the memorial greeted me warmly. First the Star Spangled Banner was played. Then we heard March of the Youths, anthem of the Republic of Vietnam. Next to flags of the United States and the Republic of Vietnam people placed incense. Veterans issued salutes.

There are two works of sculpture. The most prominent depicts an American soldier and a soldier of the Republic of Vietnam working together -- on the move, on the mission. The second honors the 800,000 boat people who attempted to leave Vietnam after the South fell in April 1975. Not all survived.

EXPERIENCE LOCAL CULTURE

This memorial enjoys pride of place in front of the Universal Shopping Center (11360 Bellaire Boulevard) -- a colorful community of Vietnamese cafes, restaurants, and stores. Sip from a Vietnamese coffee, visit a book and gift shop, or peel apart the leaves on a serving of authentic banh tet.

The veterans here are friendly with a group representing US Marines. The Vietnam War Memorial in Asiatown is one of several in Houston that honors those who served. A search online will provide locations for the war in Vietnam as well as for other deployments. And for soldiers and...

Unfortunately, I was unable to attend this yr. Failed to book MetroLift to take me. Fortunately, to, was able to attend dedication ceremony (last yr, if memory serves) & felt so fortunate to be...

I often visit Universal Shopping Center and come to see Vietnam War Memorial. I hope someone fix the...