Construction continues on the Veterans Monument in Hamilton, a monument for veterans and veterans’ families. A project of Vietnam Veterans of America Bitterroot Chapter 938, the monument is located in Hamilton (just south of Dairy Queen). The monument is designed to preserve military history by honoring veterans’ service to our country. Veterans’ names are engraved along with service, dates, rank and statement.
It is reported that approximately 5000 veterans reside within Ravalli County. Currently 480 names have been submitted for placement at the monument. In addition, names and data have been received from across the USA, veterans dated from 1756 to present. Displayed in groups, families with 4-6 generations are honored for their patriotic service to our country.
Construction began July 2011, with the installation of walkways, flagpoles, five service tablets, and 10 concrete walls. Each wall (one side) will display 100 veterans’ service data. The first black granite slab was engraved mid-March 2012. Reserved closest to the center viewing area is the wall for POW, MIA and KIA names and information.
The 2012 construction season has begun, with installation of irrigation and electrical. Future projects will include: placement of engraved 24″ square pavers within the center walkway, sidewalk expansion, landscaping, display granite centerpiece, placement of the black granite walls.
Full dedication is scheduled for November 12, 2012.
A fee of $75 will preserve your honorable service in stone. Pavers cost $250 for veterans and $1000 for businesses. Pavers are a permanent method of advertising and display many service units. All funds collected are utilized to defer construction and maintenance costs.
For purchases or donations, visit the web site www.veteransmonument.org to view the construction of 2011 and click on “Forms” to submit your data to be included upon the walls.
Vietnam Veterans of America Bitterroot Chapter 938 is grateful to the many contributors and sponsors, without whose support this project would not be possible.
For information contact Al Sperry, 381-7899, or Ron Toomer, 544-0425.