Equipment was on site at the Kimberley Veterans Memorial Park Thursday, as the long-awaited goal of moving the cenotaph got under way.
“Construction has started and we are realizing our project,” said group facilitator Cindy Postnikoff. “Military Ames is very excited to see things coming along as planned. We are right on target for having Phase I completed this Fall and that will allow us to have the November 11, 2016 Service held at the new memorial.”
The next phase, which will involve more landscaping and the installation of benches, will evolve next spring.
“It is our intention and we are working hard to get this beautiful monument and park finished as soon as possible for the entire community to enjoy,” she said.
Military Ames will be incorporating 12 granite memorial benches into the park and those are officially on sale now. There are a few options for purchasing benches and anyone interested in doing so can contact Cindy @ 250 919 3137.
The community has been very supportive to date and Postnikoff cannot say enough about the support the project is receiving.
“So many local contractors are volunteering their time and expertise. The people working Thursday are all volunteers who brought their equipment, the electrician is donating his time.
“It’s absolutely wonderful to see the support for this project that is to honor our veterans and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice so we can live free. This memorial park is a lot more than a park of honor, it will be a platform of education we will all be richer for having. To everyone that has donated so far, we thank you so much for helping... we couldn’t do it without you.”
As with any project of this scope there is a lot to do. Military Ames will be out in the community fund raising and really appreciates your support.
The July garage sale was a great success and they are planning another one so if you have items you’d like to donate to us, please call the number above. You can also go to the facebook page, Military Ames Kimberley, and check out the gofundme page. Another option for donating is the account, Military Ames, set up at the Kimberley Credit Union.
Funding for the rebuilding of the cenotaph was provided by a grant of $25,000 from Veterans Affairs Canada.