Community invited to help rebuild a lasting tribute
By Jennifer Anderson
As seen every year around Memorial Day, when crosses line Main Street in solemn remembrance, Gilmer County proudly honors the men and women who served our nation. That same spirit of respect and reflection now fuels a renewed effort to restore and enhance Gilmer Veterans Memorial Park, a place dedicated to ensuring those sacrifices are never forgotten.
Time and weather have taken a toll on the park, a vision first brought to life in 1997 by Sandy Lyons, a U.S. military veteran. Today, with community support, the Gilmer Veterans Memorial Committee, composed of local veterans and citizens, has launched a multiphased revitalization project with the goal of creating a memorial that will stand as a permanent testament for generations to come.
At the heart of Phase I is the construction of a new Memorial Wall, which will incorporate the existing tribute bricks already laid in honor of veterans. There will also be room for additional tribute bricks, allowing family and friends to continue honoring loved ones. Also to be included will be a POW/MIA tribute, service seals for the six branches of the military and special lighting.
Most significantly, the wall will feature bricks with the names of all Gold Star Heroes from Gilmer County, those who sacrificed their lives in service to the United States. Whether they were born here, lived here at the time of enlistment or now rest in local cemeteries, their names will be added as a lasting tribute to their courage and ultimate sacrifice.
Volunteers are actively working to ensure that every Gold Star Hero from Gilmer County is included on the wall, with the goal of honoring each life lost in service to our nation. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Gilmer Veterans Memorial Committee depends entirely on the generosity of the public. Every donation, no matter the size, goes directly toward building a site worthy of those who stood for freedom and defended this country. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
For those who wish to honor a loved one, recognize a friend or simply support this cause, your contributions are welcomed and appreciated! Checks can be mailed to: Gilmer Veterans Memorial Committee, P.O. Box 345, Ellijay, GA 30540.
To donate online, visit: square.link/u/Ki0lQcIc. For information about purchasing tribute bricks, contact the committee at gilmerveteransmemorial@gmail.com. Together, we can create an enduring memorial that is a living testament to sacrifice, service and love of country.
Jennifer Anderson serves as chair of the Gilmer Veterans Memorial Committee.