Veteran Park Memorial Pavers Available

Should you speak with anyone that has visited the various sites and areas around our city this last year, they have especially found the Veterans Community Park and the Veterans Memorial section of that park to be both spectacular and inspiring.

A solitary stroll along the “walkway of honor” finds an elderly gentleman wearing a cap denoting their service connections; a couple strolling the walkway recognize a relative’s or their own name. And on occasion, an active duty member of the military on leave will be walking with his or her parents on a warm day, enjoying the splendor of the park and all it offers.

That walkway was made possible with purchases of special brick pavers bought as part of the initial fundraising done by veterans, who spearheaded the endeavor to build a lasting memorial that would honor all veterans.

Many other financial contributions were acquired during the fundraising of Phase 1 of the Veterans Memorial Project. With flags waving under a sunny Southwest Florida morning, the ceremonial dedication on November 11, 2011, was among the most moving and well-attended Veterans Day Ceremonies ever held on Marco Island.

Starting next week, the community will have the opportunity to come together again to honor members of their families, neighbors and friends. The last available 800 pavers are being offered by American Legion Post 404 after a hiatus due to Covid and the final construction phase of the park.

Legion Post 404 has taken over that responsibility from the City of Marco Island and all proceeds will continue to be dedicated to making enhancements and maintaining the memorial pavers.

The same three sizes of pavers will be available: A four-by-eight paver for $100, an eight-by-eight paver for $250, and a twelve-by-twelve for $500. The inscription you wish to have placed on the paver and perpetual care of the paver is included.

A special box with order forms is located at the entry to the walkway of the memorial and will be prominently labeled.

For more information regarding the program, please contact: John Apolzan, First Vice Commander, American Legion Post 404, Marco Island, Florida, at john.apolzan@gmail.com