The plans have arrived.

Monday, June 04, 2001

The plans have arrived. Veterans Memorial Committee members got a first look last week at drawings depicting what Tri-State residents can view later this year when construction’s finished on the group’s memorial at Woodland Cemetery.

The plans show the brick path, circling past 8-foot stone markers set between two Civil War era rifles and a flagpole in the center. Benches will face the memorial, while a split rail fence will separate it from the hillside overlooking U.S. 52. Hidden near the fencing are lights that will shine on the flags and monuments at night.

"It will truly be a sight to see, a fitting tribute," said Frank McCown, committee president.

This month, area residents and supporters – who have given tens of thousands of dollars in donations so far – can view the official start of the veteran’s memorial.

A flag raising, conducted by committee members and the Ironton VFW honor guard, will be held June 14 – Flag Day – at 5 p.m. at the memorial site, located on the U.S. 52 edge of Woodland Cemetery between the main entrance and back entrance.

Construction is slated to take place this summer, with the idea to hold a dedication for the memorial in November, McCown said.

With cash in hand and in-kind contributions, the committee has enough to reach the dedication, but are continuing fund-raising efforts, he said.

"And, we have more than 1,200 bricks donated so far, and there’s still room for more," McCown added.

The memorial bricks are bought, then etched with the name of the veteran the buyer wishes to honor. They cost $25 per brick, with three lines of 13 spaces each for the tribute. The bricks will be used to line a path to and from the memorial, called the Patriot’s Path.

The committee reminds those who want to purchase bricks to do so by August.

For instructions, or further information about the Veterans Memorial Committee, contact Frank McCown at 533-4332; Juanita Markel at 532-1033; or Sue Deeds at 533-4312. Donations can be mailed to Veterans Memorial Committee, P.O. Box 596, Ironton, Ohio, 45638.