HAIR & MATTHEWS POST 32
3814 Legion Road
Hope Mills, NC 28348
American Legion, Department of North Carolina
Serving Veterans and the Hope Mills / Fayetteville COmmunity

As one of the Heroes Homecoming partners, the Museum of the Cape Fear is planning a living history event with Vietnam re-enactors. The event will be modeled after Civil War encampments where re-enactors set up displays, demonstrate weaponry, and talk to visitors about the war.

Our Vietnam encampment is scheduled for Nov. 12 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. I know the parade is on the same day. Our hope is that after the parade, people will stay in the greater downtown area and attend the encampment, which will take place on the historic arsenal grounds—the site of Fayetteville’s first military presence.

The main reason for my email is to share an idea and make a request. Many Vietnam re-enactors, along with vehicles and equipment, will be part of the parade. My idea is to have them come up the hill, to arsenal park, after the parade where people can take a closer look at the equipment and vehicles as re-enactors and/or veterans talk about these things. My request is, will you help make this happen? Would it be possible for me to attend a meeting so that I can discuss this idea? What is the best way to get the word out to the parade participants about this idea so that I can secure a commitment from those that would be interested in participating? I also ask that announcements be made during the parade letting visitors know that they can see the Vietnam equipment up close by attending the encampment at the Museum of the Cape Fear. Such an announcement would be particularly valuable at the end of the parade, encouraging people to attend.

Your consideration of my request, and helping me to make a better Vietnam encampment for the public during Heroes Homecoming is much appreciated. We would welcome veteran groups to participate too. If anyone is interested in setting up a table to promote their group, or just give the public a chance to say thank you and welcome home would be a great addition to our event.

If you need more information as you consider this idea and request please let me know. I look forward to hearing from you.