Elgin veterans want to add waterfront access to memorial
Submitted by Elgin Community Network
The Elgin Veterans Memorial Park “Phase II” Committee, in cooperation with the city of Elgin, recently announced its campaign “Extending the Honor” to build a “Phase II” — or waterfront access — to the memorial.
This addition to currently undeveloped shoreline of the park will allow for more dignified ceremonies — particularly on Memorial Day — for the strewing of wreaths and flowers in the nearby Fox River to honor those who are interred at sea.
The unveiling of the design is planned for 4 p.m. Friday, May 18, at the Veterans Memorial Park. The date was chosen because that is the day before Armed Forces Day — a date for citizens to come together and thank our military members for their patriotic service in support of our country.
Professional estimates obtained by the committee show the project will cost between $62,000 and $67,000. The Elgin Breakfast Rotary Club will be presenting a check for $10,000 at the ceremony as will Elgin resident Elinor Richoz. Naming opportunities, which provide inclusion on the dedication plaque, are available for certain levels of contributions.
In addition to soliciting donations, members are raising money through the sale of lapel buttons and polo shirts. Pins will be available from members as well as the Spring Street and Lillian Street stores of Ace Hardware and on the day of the event.
The Phase II Committee is made up of veterans and interested citizens — including some who served on the steering committee for the original memorial in 2008. Gene Banke and Jerry Turnquist are co-chairs, and Patricia Porter is secretary.
Other members include Lee Barrett, Ernie Broadnax, Ray Chelmowski, Elgin City Council member Richard Dunne, Rep. Keith Farnham, Brian McClure, Elinor Richoz, Walter Porter, and Wally Wetzel.
The Veterans Memorial Park is located adjacent to the Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove Ave. Elgin. In the event of rain, the ceremony will be held in the community room of the Gail Borden Public Library.
Donations may be made to the “Elgin Community Network — Phase II Fund,” P.O. Box 6520, Elgin, IL 60121 acting as the fiscal agent for the group. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
“PayPal” and further information about the project is available on the group’s website at www.elginveteransmemorial.org. For information, call (847) 431-2472.