Friday, February 7, 2025 (9:00 am)

New Vietnam exhibit to open at Heroes Hall on Feb. 15

The next Heroes Hall exhibit, “Echoes of Conflict: Remembering Vietnam,” offers a powerful and immersive journey through one of modern history’s most complex and divisive conflicts.

Through a rich collection of artifacts, personal stories, historical facts and poignant memorabilia, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the war’s profound impact on the soldiers who fought and the broader global context.

The exhibit features items such as uniforms, weaponry, photographs and letters detailing firsthand accounts that highlight the cost of war and its lasting effects on individuals and society. This comprehensive display seeks to honor the experiences of those involved while providing historical insights into the war’s political, social and cultural repercussions.

As part of the exhibit, a speaker series featuring local veterans will highlight personal stories of war. This panel discussion with three Black Marines whose service spans from World War II to Desert Shield, will focus on their Vietnam War experiences. All three are members of the Montford Point Marines Association, which celebrates the first all-Black unit in the Marine Corps and its significant role in breaking racial barriers within the military.

The free event will take place March 1 from 2 to 3 p.m. at Heroes Hall. Participants will be 1st Sgt. Jack McDowell, Sgt. Maj. Leon Williams and Sgt. Maj. Charles Cook Jr.

1st Sgt. McDowell enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in April 1945. He served in the Pacific Theater during World War II and was a member of the Montford Point Marines. McDowell later fought in both the Korean War and Vietnam War. He retired from the military in 1971 with numerous awards, including the Bronze Star, three Purple Hearts and the Congressional Gold Medal. 

Sgt. Maj. Williams enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1951. He served in both the Korean War and Vietnam War and earned two Purple Hearts and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. Williams retired from the military in 1975. During his 24 years of service, he served at 20 duty stations. 

Sgt. Maj. Cook Jr. retired from the U.S. Marine Corps in January 2000 after a distinguished 30-year career. Enlisting in 1970, Cook served in Vietnam and Okinawa during the war. His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal and Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. 

There will also be a special presentation by Justice Eileen Moore, former combat nurse in Vietnam. The free event is planned for March 29 from 2 to 3 p.m. at Heroes Hall.

“Lessons Learned from Vietnam Veterans” will shed light on the experiences of soldiers and those who treated them and helped them heal.

Moore was appointed to the Superior Court of California in 1989 and to the California Court of Appeal in 2000. She also practiced as a lawyer and as a registered nurse. Moore has been a tireless supporter of veterans and is a life member of Vietnam Veterans of America. She founded and chairs the Judicial Council’s Veterans and Military Families Committee, and serves on the Veterans Justice Commission, which works with Congress to improve the transition of military service members into civilian life.