It may seem like a token effort to the cynics, but the construction of a memorial to honor some of our country’s heroes is anything but just another project.

More than a year of hard work and commitment to recognize the sacrifices of the men and women who paid the ultimate price for our nation culminates Saturday, in what will be a testament to the military organization putting it on and the community that came together to help make this dream happen.

Proctorville VFW Post 6878 is set to dedicate its Memorial Plaza near the post home outside the village.

The program is slated to begin at 2 p.m. Saturday. A community cookout at the shelter house will follow. Other area posts and the entire community are invited to attend the ceremony.

The memorial is a testament to the soldiers who have fought — and died — for our country. The inscription on one of the stones at the memorial sums up the purpose perfectly: “All Gave Some, Some Gave All.”

This memorial honors the country as a whole, the state of Ohio, the soldiers who have gone missing in action as well as all five branches of military.

From start to finish, this entire project has been community driven. All the VFW members should be proud of their effort and involvement, led by commander Warren Napier and senior vice commander Dean Cooper.

Ohio University Proctorville Center art teacher Gary Tillis designed the layout that was meant to pay respect to all the fallen heroes.

And, of course, it wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of the community that helped raise $16,000. That is a tremendous achievement and shows what can be done when people work together.

This memorial was built through an effort of which those being honored would most certainly be proud.