The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall coming to Ulster County has a special meaning for Col. Roger Donlon. 

"I realized 58,000 of my buddies are now in my hometown spiritually, reflected on the lists on the moving wall," says Donlon. "That was special."

The Saugerties native came from a family dedicated to serving the country. His father, uncle and brothers all served in uniform. 

"What carried me through life was the lessons I learned here at home," says Donlon. "At home and at school and at church." 

Donlon was the keynote speaker at the opening ceremony of the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall at Cantine Field on Friday. 

"People in my hometown and in Ulster County to be united together in such a special way is a blessing," the Army and Air Force veteran said of the ceremony. 

He says the values learned in Saugerties from the Scouts and lessons about prayer from his mother and hard work from his father got him through a decorated career. Donlon was the first recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor for his service in Vietnam awarded by President Johnson in 1964.

"Most people don't realize I nominated two of my men for this honor," said Donlon. "So, I wear it in honor of them and to the others that didn't come home."

Officials say healing and honoring those who didn't come home from Vietnam is the purpose of this memorial, and why it's come to Saugerties. 

"It shows really the sacrifices that have been made locally," said Ulster County Executive Michael Hein. "And, with the over 58,000 names on the wall, the sacrifices made across our nation."

And, for Colonel Donlon, he hopes that those who pass by the wall over the weekend will come away with some lessons. 

"Be grateful we be born Americans, be grateful that people have sacrificed to retain our sovereignty," says Donlon. "And, a reminder that we must be prepared; be vigilant constantly."

The wall will be available in Saugerties for viewing and reflection 24 hours a day through Sunday night.