When I’m carrying my camera, I never feel like I’m stuck in one place. There is so much to photograph–even though you’re truly not interested in the subject. Egidio challenges us to find photographic opportunities in a small area. Today, being Memorial Day here in the U. S., I dug through my archives to find the California Vietnam Veterans Memorial ~ Capitol Park in Sacramento

This is of special significance to me since my husband served in the Army during the Vietnam war. It took a long time for this Nation to honor our Vietnam Vets. I didn’t have to take many steps to photograph these sculptures, but it was like I was walking miles.

It was a long year of waiting, watching the war on television and talking with my husband, Richard, who was caring a radio on his back through the jungle and wounded twice. Thank heavens for Ham Radio Operators around the world. Richard returned home, but not without emotional scars.

So, while you are celebrating with friends and family today, take a moment to remember those who didn’t make it home or made it home with physical and emotional injuries.

I’m sure Egidio didn’t mean for this challenge to be a somber one, but I didn’t mean for this post to be so difficult. You just never know what will happen when you start typing. Next week Tina will take us in another direction with a new challenge. Thanks to Ritva for last week’s colorful challenge.

Take care everyone, stay safe and be resilient.

38 thoughts on “Lens Artists Challenge #399: Stuck in Place”

  1. Anne, this is not somber at all. What a great tribute and wonderful photos! Please thank your husband for his service. I especially liked how expressive the portraits are. Excellent choice for the challenge.

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  2. Anne, wow! This is such a emotional post. The sculptures are amazing and your captures of them are great. I’m fighting back tears as I think of you at home waiting for your husband. Please thank him for his service and thank you for the sacrifices you made.

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  6. I loved your post Anne – where are these statues located? I’d not seen them before, they’re wonderful. Thanks for reminding us that the real meaning of Memorial Day has nothing to do with barbecues and picnics. And please tell your husband we thank him for his service along with all of those who have served our country over the years.

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    1. Thanks Tina! The statues are located at the end of the park nearest to the Capitol building. There is also a wall with the names of Sacramento Vets who didn’t make it home, and a couple of statues dedicated to fire fighters and medical personnel. At the extreme end of the park is the Capitol Rose Garden. It’s a great place to spend a few hours. Also you can tour the Capitol building. I will extend your comment to Richard.

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  9. To be honest I am more touched by your words than your photos, which are great. As war has touched you both, in different ways, emotionally war is difficult for both parties those at home and those in the middle of the insanity. In Finland it left marks on a generation of men, and the effects rippled down still to this day. The silence, not speaking of war… what a thoughtful post Anne

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  10. Intentionally or not a very thoughtful post and the thoughts you expressed. The sculptures like so many at memorials are skilful captures of moments and each thought provoking. No matter where we live in the world, I feel people understand the futillity of war and agression, yet our so called leaders seemed so oblivious of the bloodshed, damage and mental torment fir so many.

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  13. That has to be one of the most moving war memorials I’ve seen – it doesn’t over-glorify it as some memorials do. And your words remind us that wars can be tough for those left at home too.

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  15. Vietnam – such a tragedy in so many ways. At the same time, the draft for 18-year-olds who couldn’t vote till 21 was just one of many substantial changes to the prevailing US culture at the time. I had friends in Vietnam, some friends who were draft dodgers and later pardoned. I am so tired of these idiotic wars. For me, your essay was somber and yet another reminder about the incredible stupidity of the motives and reasons justifying wars. WW2 was the last war worth fighting.

    Thanks for a reminder of what we have been and could be and are.

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  16. I think this post was perfect for Memorial Day and taking care to remember those who gave their lives for our freedom. Thank your husband for his service. I believe there should be special places for the spouses of Vets in which to share their fears. Wonderful captures, Anne!

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