Friday, Nov. 14, 2008
Highland Village Unveils Veterans Monument
By Adrian McCandless
Staff Writer
A crowd gathered outside of the Highland Village Municipal Complex on Tuesday for the dedication ceremony of the new Veterans Monument. Marcus High School’s 881st AFJROTC cadets presented the colors for the ceremony, and former Highland Village Mayor Bill Lawrence led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Mayor Dianne Costa invited children wattending the ceremony to help unveil the plaque honoring all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Directly behind the plaque are five stone towers each displaying a seal from the five branches of the U.S. Military. Council members explained the origins of each military seal.
City Manager Michael Leavitt said discussions about erecting a monument to honor veterans became more prevalent after Army Pfc. Aaron Hudson, a Highland Village resident, was killed in action while serving in Iraq in 2005.
"I am proud to say that this community has stepped forward," he said. "To date we are at a little over $15,000 of community support funds."
Costa added that donations for the monument are still being accepted.
Retired Petty Officer 3rd Class Warren Willenburg, a 37-year resident of Highland Village, said he was proud to see a Veterans Monument in the city.
"I’m glad it’s here," he said.
Print
E-Mail
