Huntley veterans' memorial being prepped for weekend unveiling

Workers are putting the finishing touches on Huntley's new veterans' memorial in preparation for a weekend unveiling.

Black granite slabs honoring the six branches of military service — Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and National Guard — were installed Friday in Huntley's downtown square. Each branch's flag accompanies the 25-foot-long curved monument, which features a laser-engraved mural on the back side. It is flanked by granite benches honoring prisoners of war and Purple Heart recipients.

A round Gold Star Boys Monument also honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service of their country. Pre-purchased engraved brick pavers should be installed by end of the week near the memorial site.

The dedication ceremony will kick off at noon Saturday with a flag raising, recognition of Gold Star fallen heroes and a message from Major Leonard Williams of the Army National Guard.

“Nearly $125,000 has been raised to make this memorial for our local heroes a reality,” said Dawn Ellison, Huntley Area Veterans Foundation president. “It's important that we remember those who have served, and are still serving, to protect our freedom and way of life.”

Local veterans are urged to include their names on a virtual monument by visiting huntleyveterans.org to submit their service information. The online listing will be continually updated to include new veterans making it a perpetual monument for the community. More than 800 names already have been collected, along with branch, rank and service years.

The foundation is selling red or black T-shirts starting at $20 ($22 for 2XL or 4XL) supporting the memorial project.

“There has been a great amount of community support for this project, and we're very excited to see everything coming together,” Ellison said.