Tomb of the Unknown Soldier - Never Forget Garden Veterans Memorial

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier/Never Forget Garden Veterans Memorial will be a special place for remembrance of all missing and unknown soldiers, from the Revolutionary War to the present, who made the ultimate sacrifice, giving not only their lives but also their identities to protect our American freedoms. The garden will be a living tribute with the memorial providing an educational opportunity where all generations can learn about patriotism and that freedom comes with a heavy price.

This is an all volunteer project encompassing committee members representing DAR, SAR, BV Memorial Board members, and Members from local Garden Clubs. We have had tremendous support from community members, the American Legion, the Marine Corps League and veterans individually. The value of a Never Forget Garden Veterans Memorial lies in education, patriotism, and conservation as well as adding beauty to the park with native plants. It will include a symbolic Tomb of the Unknown Soldier monument, a granite star inset in a concrete plaza and recognition pedestals. The plaza will be surrounded on 3 sides by a garden filled with native flowers, bushes, and trees. Inset next to the plaza edge touching the garden area will be brick pavers engraved with text submitted by donors. School groups and families visiting the park may point out the lesson that military service sometimes ends with soldiers not returning home, but they need to always be remembered for their sacrifice. The memorial will provide a peaceful place for wreath laying ceremonies in honor of remembered loved ones and friends.

Testimonials

Self-worth & peace of mind are components of good mental health, and every soldier needs to know that what he/she has done for this country is meaningful. This permanent memorial, a place of reflection, will confirm that Americans are proud of their military and that veterans' comrades who did not make it home will be remembered forever for their sacrifice. Also, through this memorial, Vietnam veterans will hopefully feel the honor and respect now which was originally withheld and know that this quiet place of contemplation will be a lasting reminder of our soldiers' importance to America. --Sherry F.