Gurnee memorial effort must continue

I am writing in support of the regional Iraq/Afghanistan War Memorial to be constructed by the Heroes of Freedom Committee of the PFC Geoffrey Morris Foundation. I have known about the ultimate sacrifices of several young Americans from the Gurnee area to defend our country and freedoms. I also know there are others who were wounded, or simply served their duty and returned home safely.

I am a firm believer that the reason our country has not been attacked by terrorists again after Sep. 11, 2001 is that our soldiers, Marines, sailors, and Coast Guardsmen have taken the fight to the enemy. I fully support them and believe that it is important that all Americans show our appreciation for their contributions to our safety.

It is also important to the families of those who served, and especially for those Gold Star families who lost a loved one fighting for us.

We need to make a permanent statement to them that their loss is not forgotten. I can't be at their side each time they reflect on what it would be like to touch or kiss that child, brother, sister, uncle, father again. But when there is no one nearby to console them, they can go by or to the memorial and know that their country did not take their life lightly and their community has not forgotten them.

I implore the village of Gurnee to allow this project to go forward at all deliberate speed. I was proud to help arrange some pro bono architectural services for the memorial.

As someone who lives 45 miles from Gurnee, I can say that the eyes of northern Illinois, the eyes of the military, the eyes of the whole country are upon you. What you do speaks volumes on the character of your village.

Bobby V. Ferguson

Barrington Hills