Our Veterans Memorial Park is moving forward — making progress

Published 10:10 am Tuesday, August 30, 2022

The efforts toward the creation of Our Veterans Memorial Park is moving forward. Last spring, we held two fundraisers. First was a Fun Run at the park property, with an exciting run and music from many local churches. Supporters of the park came out and purchased T-shirts and memorial bricks for loved ones. Second was a motorcycle ride and chicken dinner sales, which also included the sale of T-shirts and memorial bricks. Both events were a great success with community support.

The WRPEC held a Memorial Day Program on the site, which proved to be a tremendous success with a great crowd. Washington Parish residents, elected officials and supporters of the new space shared in the patriotic program recognizing those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Other events for the community will be forthcoming, as this park is for the people of Washington Parish and only with the support from the community can it succeed.

With that hope in mind, the latest progress is the flagpoles and flags have been received to allow installation to commence. As a community effort, we have had many citizens purchase T-shirts and memorial bricks for loved ones and also in recognition of a veteran’s service to his country. This is necessary for the park to truly be a Washington Parish location for our veterans.

Thank you to all of you who have shown support for this Memorial Park. As an example of community spirit in this effort, Bass Concrete has volunteered to provide the concrete for the installation of the flagpoles, which will save the park a great deal of funds for that part of the project. Thanks to Bubba Bourne at Bass Concrete for stepping up to offer help with this important part of the creation of this memorial for our veterans. The sight of these flags to all who pass the park will signal that Washington Parish holds our veterans in honor and regard. As citizens like Bubba Bourne get involved, the park will become a reality.

Please reach out to us on Facebook at “Our Veterans Memorial Park,” our website at www.ourvetspark.org; or writing us at P.O. Box 362, Franklinton, LA 70438. Thank you for your support.

This article was submitted by Joannie Miller, who is the secretary for the Our Veterans Memorial Park Committee.