New Vietnam War Exhibit Honors Region's Fallen Veterans

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PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- An exhibit on the Vietnam War opening at the John Heinz History Center this Saturday contains a special component honoring veterans from Western Pennsylvania.

The Vietnam War: 1945-1975 exhibit takes visitors on a multimedia experience tracing the United States' involvement in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, from the Cold War to the U.S. exit in the mid-1970s, according to a press release.

A section of the press release reads:

"The exhibition showcases the key players and turning points of the complex war and explores how the conflict heavily impacted our nation's trust in government, economics, popular culture, and the identity of Americans at home and abroad."

Developed in partnership with the New York Historical Society, the new exhibition uses photography, artifacts and over 20 audio-visual displays that tell the personal stories of those affected by the war, at home and abroad.

Among the artifacts is a "Huey" helicopter used by the U.S. Army from 1967-1970.

The exhibit also examines Western Pennsylvania's role in the war by featuring the stories of Pittsburghers who fought in combat, provided support services, or participated in anti-war and humanitarian causes.

To honor the region's fallen veterans, the exhibit's 22-foot-wide, 8-foot-tall replica of the Vietnam War Memorial features the names of all 752 fallen veterans from eight counties in Western Pa.

This Saturday, April 13 -- opening day -- all veterans and active duty military will receive free admission to the History Center. And until Sunday, Sept. 22, they will receive half-off museum admission.

For more information on the exhibit and admission pricing, visit their website here.