CLARKSVILLE — It’s been a little over five months since Clinton-Massie Local Schools shared its vision of erecting a veterans memorial that will preserve the memory of those lost to war and honor those who served their country.
Located on the Massie campus, the memorial will serve as a tribute to the Falcons that have given of themselves to protect the freedoms of others.
After working with Jim Smith of Laser Imaging and Design and with Rod Amburgy to design the memorial and secure labor donations for portions of the display, Superintendent Matt Baker reached out to members of the community to ask for their support in raising the $15,000 needed to fund the original concept of the memorial.
Baker knew that he was asking for a lot, but he believed in the Massie community and the deep appreciation it held for those who served.
Funds quickly began to pour in as private individuals, businesses, churches and community and veterans’ organizations took up the cause.
Where some selflessly offered up skill and expertise, others generously provided the financial support that would foster the creation of the Clinton-Massie Veterans Memorial.
On Feb. 18, phase one of construction began with the digging and pouring of the memorial foundation, which will also include six granite pillars with laser etched scenes.
Baker anticipates phase two of installation of the flagpoles, landscaping, pavers, granite benches, and lighting to begin in June.
With plans for the original memorial being so well received and 100-percent fully funded through community donations, Baker’s vision of a “dream memorial” began to evolve.
According to Baker, as donations continued to pour in, what was once thought to be only a dream for an even grander tribute to our military was essentially becoming a reality.
The total cost for the over-the-top version of the original memorial is expected to be approximately $45,000 — for which the district has received donations in the amount of almost $30,000.
Baker anticipates the memorial to be completed by the start of the next school year.
Information for this article was provided by Diana Miller, who coordinates communications for several area schools.
