FY23 Veterans Memorial Grant

The Kanabec County Veterans Memorial will be a phased plan to begin with a plaza which will include the US Flag and all service branch flags. We are requesting funding for the purchase of custom flag poles. The flags will surround a concrete plaza which will include a granite memorial listing all known Kanabec County veterans who were killed in action (WWII-current). At the granite KIA memorial will be a statue of a solider/person kneeling in honor of those killed. Around the concrete plaza will be installed "Walls of Honor". These granite walls will provide information of veterans to include: names, branch of service and dates of service. Veterans and community members are encouraged to purchase a space in honor of beloved veterans. The wall space is approximately 6''x12'' inches.
We have considered adding benches to the site to provide a place of remembrance. A place for people to sit and reflect on the sacrifice of our veterans or remember loved ones. We have not decided on the type of benches at this time. We have a local veteran who has provided drawings of benches he would be able to construct. These drawings are included in our request. At this point we will want to look at what types of materials will create a beautiful space and last in a MN environment.
We plan to include a piece of military equipment, vehicle or aircraft. Most specifically we are hoping to get a Huey helicopter. The aircraft will be mounted in the air. Also on site will be a building approximately 40x80 which will include a static display of military heirlooms provided by local veterans and their families. Our hope is to tell the story of our local heroes and warriors in an effort to educate the community and keep the memory of our past wars alive. The building will also be a space for local organizations to gather or hold meetings. All areas will be connected with concrete walking paths allowing access to all abilities.