Honoring All Who Served: Tallahassee Community Rallies to Complete Army Memorial
A local effort is underway to ensure every branch of the U.S. Military is represented at the Tallahassee National Cemetery. Spearheaded by Billy Holder, chairman of Army Strong, the project aims to erect both an Army memorial and a Vietnam Battle Cross, completing a vision for a comprehensive tribute to those who have served.
From Inspiration to Action: A Two-Year Journey
The initiative began with a simple question: where was the Army? Holder was prompted to action after reading a newspaper article about the installation of an Air Force memorial at the cemetery in 2023. Recognizing a gap in representation, he embarked on a two-year project to rectify the oversight. Army Strong, a group dedicated to honoring Army veterans, is leading the charge.
A Dual Tribute: Army Memorial and Vietnam Battle Cross
The project encompasses two distinct monuments. The Army memorial will stand as a tribute to all who have served in the U.S. Army. Alongside it, a Vietnam Battle Cross will honor the sacrifices made by service members across all military branches. The Battle Cross is a powerful symbol featuring a soldier’s boots, rifle, helmet, and dog tags.
Community Support Needed: The Final $10,000
Whereas significant progress has been made, the project requires a final $10,000 to reach its $40,000 goal. Holder is actively seeking community donations to cover these remaining costs. The monuments are being constructed by the FSU Master Craftsman Studio, the same group that built the Air Force Memorial at the cemetery.
Materials and Design: A Lasting Legacy
The monuments will be crafted from tropical green granite, sourced through Capital Monument, a local business. Initially, there was consideration to combine the Army memorial and Battle Cross into a single structure, but it was determined they would be more impactful as separate tributes. The Vietnam Battle Cross will feature the inscription: “All gave some, some gave all.”
A Personal Connection: Remembering Vietnam Veterans
Holder’s dedication stems from a personal connection to military service, with both his brother and father having served. He recalls the difficult homecoming faced by Vietnam veterans, many of whom did not receive the recognition they deserved. He hopes this memorial will serve as a lasting expression of gratitude and respect.
How to Contribute
Individuals interested in supporting the project can contact Billy Holder directly at [email protected] or by phone at 850-631-2701.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the Army Strong organization?
- Army Strong is a group of veterans and supporters dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who served in the U.S. Army.
- What is a Vietnam Battle Cross?
- The Vietnam Battle Cross is a symbol representing a fallen soldier, typically consisting of a rifle stood into the ground with boots, helmet, and dog tags.
- When is the expected completion date for the memorials?
- Organizers are hoping the monuments will be installed between April and May.
- Who is building the monuments?
- The monuments will be built by the FSU Master Craftsman Studio.
Pro Tip: Consider donating to this worthy cause and help ensure that the service and sacrifice of our Army veterans are properly honored at the Tallahassee National Cemetery.
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