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Charlie McConnell, a native of Coeburn, Virginia who divides his time between homes there and in Henrico, is the featured artist for a special exhibit opening before Veterans Day at the Virginia War Memorial. The paintings and drawings include landscapes, depictions of family members, combat scenes and more.
At a preview of the exhibit held Nov. 3, McConnell told the crowd that, as a Vietnam veteran, he was especially pleased to showcase his artwork at the war memorial.
"I was lucky to come back [from Vietnam]. But many of my dear friends did not come back; they are names on the wall. So I am glad to be able to honor them here."
An accomplished guitarist, McConnell holds frequent jam sessions at Lay's Hardware Store in Coeburn; he notes in one display that he has had his guitar more than 50 years, and took it to Vietnam with him.
"It has been run over by a car," he said, "and was put back together with Elmer's glue."
The exhibit will be housed at the VWM until Spring 2023.
