As preparations continue for the arrival of The Wall That Heals, local organizers are finding creative ways to help cover the costs associated with bringing the traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial exhibit to the community.

Just four weeks after being approached by local organizers, SwiftWear, a print shop based in Afton, partnered with the effort to create custom merchandise that community members can purchase to support the event. The goal was simple: offer meaningful keepsakes while raising funds to help make the exhibit possible.

The merchandise line currently includes T-shirts, hats, drink coozies, bandanas, and fanny packs, all featuring a logo created specifically for The Wall That Heals. While the original artwork was provided, SwiftWear worked extensively to refine the design and prepare it for apparel and promotional products. A few hundred commemorative items have already been produced, with many more planned as the event draws closer. Organizers also plan to outfit volunteers in custom shirts printed by SwiftWear.

According to Michael Horn, owner of SwiftWear, there was initially discussion about incorporating the company’s branding into the merchandise. However, he ultimately felt the focus should remain entirely on the significance of The Wall That Heals and the veterans it honors.

“I wanted the attention to stay on the experience and the wall itself,” Horn explained. For Horn, the project is deeply personal. His uncle, Alan M. Horn, his father’s brother, is one of the names honored on The Wall. That family connection serves as his “why” behind supporting the effort and helping ensure the memorial can be experienced by local residents.

“Having my uncle’s name on The Wall makes this more than just another project,” Horn said. “It’s an opportunity to honor his sacrifice and help others remember the men and women whose lives were forever changed by the Vietnam War.”

Sales of the merchandise will continue leading up to the event. Organizers hope proceeds will help offset the expenses involved in bringing the exhibit to the area.