Memorial here will pay tribute to selfless service of patriots

Significant contributions have been made to the Rector Veterans Memorial Park project and additional supporters of veterans and the community are being asked by the organizing committee to join the effort.

The impressive park, to be located on Main Street just south of the new community visitors center, promises to be of a quality to appropriately honor veterans and serve as a regional attraction.

All sizes of contributions are encouraged and may be made to Veterans Memorial Park Association, 409 South Stewart, Rector, AR 72461. Persons also may obtain more information at the association's website at www.RectorHeroes.org.

"As we embark on the task ahead to develop, build and maintain a Veterans Memorial Park in our hometown, I think it is important to reflect on why we have come together to take on this enormous endeavor," said committee co-chairman George E. Barker, Major Gen. U.S. Army Retired.

"It is our opportunity and obligation to pay tribute to the many individuals that have served our country in the uniformed services of the Armed Forces of the United States of America. They are true patriots who selflessly wore the uniform of their service with pride, dignity, sacrifice and dedication. They never let our country down and it is our responsibility to pay tribute to that service by creating a special place in their honor. The memorial park will bring our military heroes together in a very meaningful way. As a community, let's work together to honor those who have served our country as Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard."

Donations of $1,000 or more will be recognized on a special Founders Wall at the park. Various levels of contributions will be featured on the wall.

Those who currently are in line for the Founders Wall include:

George Barker -- $20,000.

Melvin Bridges -- $6,000.

Danny and Gail Ford and Family -- $5,000

Anonymous -- $2,500.

U.S. Rep. Marion Berry -- $1,000.

Glenn Leach - $1,000.

Joe Calvin -- $1,000.

Vance and Iva Lee Wesley -- $1,000.

Louis Manzie -- $1,000

Anonymous -- $1,000.

Anonymous -- $1,000

Several other significant donations have been pledged and will be announced soon.

The primary feature of the park will be a life-size bronze statue of a World War II soldier. The statue will be located in the central area of the park, along with flags of each of the armed services positioned around the soldier. A POW/MIA flag and the Arkansas state flag also will be included. The American flag will preside over all the flags and will stand tall with appropriate lighting to ensure the stars and stripes will be illuminated for all to enjoy 24 hours a day.

"As you enter the park," a spokesman said, "you will begin your journey along Heritage Walk. This 15-foot wide walkway will extend the length of the park. On each side will be placed 4x8-inch commemorative, personalized engraved granite stones. The purpose is to recognize every individual, past, present and future, who has served in the uniform of our country and contributed to the preservation of our freedom. The walkway leads us to the ceremonial area, designed for various military and civic functions."

Supporters may purchase a commemorative paver, recognizing a veteran, for $125. The price also includes a 2x4-inch miniature replica of the paver. Additional miniature replicas may be purchased for $25.

All donations to the veterans project are fully tax-deductible.

The park property was donated by George and Robert Jernigan, Pauline Crockett and Sherland Hamilton.

Estimated cost of the project is $150,000. Working on the general layout of the park are two Rector natives -- architect John Mack and artist Paul Frets.

In addition to Barker, other committee members are co-chairman Glenn Leach, Paul Frets, Barbara Hamilton, Wheeler Williams, Danny Ford, Richard Simmons, Sarah Burdin and Melvin Bridges. Mayor Ron Kemp serves as an ex-officio member. City employees Betty Benson and Jacinda Welch provide administrative support.