After years of planning, a groundbreaking ceremony marks that the Brawley Veterans Memorial Wall is becoming a reality.

Etched in the monument will be the names of Brawley veterans. Marion Journey, a veteran who is on the committee to build the monument says "the monument is for all veterans, deceased ones, live ones and for everyone."

The wall personally touches many veterans. Rick Partridge, a Marine Corps veteran, says "it feels good that we're getting recognized. the veterans that served our great nation."

Partridge served in the Persian Gulf War. He says now more than ever, it is important to recognize our service men and women. The wall, Partridge says, is "a way to show our appreciation for the past, present and future that we are appreciated; that people do remember you."

And amid the excitement over the groundbreaking, an announcement was made by 80th District Assemblyman Manuel Perez (D). According to Perez, the California State Legislature declared March 30th, 2010 "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day" in the Golden State.

Veterans hope that this special day -- and the monument honoring our nation's heroes -- will help today's military members coming home from overseas.