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LAUREL—About two years ago, the Laurel VFW Auxiliary started talking about placing something out at the cemetery to honor the heroes who served our country. Members wanted it where it could be seen, near the Medal of Honor sign on Hwy 20 on the west side of Laurel.
The Auxiliary had $200 in its checking account, and decided the necessary funds were not there, but decided to create a de- sign and see what the sign would actually cost.
Along with the sign, members also wanted to illuminate the sign. After receiving some quotes, members tried to figure out how to raise the monies needed to create the monument.
It seemed like there were so many organizations that were asking the public for money at that time, members said. It would probably cost more than any bake sales could provide.
When the final design was decided on, something miraculous happened. Without advertising the project was in the works, funds started coming in from members of the Auxiliary and their families. Enough money was received to start our project.
The sign is up now and can be seen as you drive west, by the second entrance to the cemetery. The sign is done but some electrical work still needs to be done. Members also plan on doing some minor landscaping.
Auxiliary members want to show their gratitude to all that have helped with the project: Justin and Jesse Swanson for the installation of the sign; Campbell and Campbell’s Service for the electrical work; Mike Meier at Laurel Welding for his work building the sign; Andrew Gothier at Gothier Body Shop, for painting the sign.
It couldn’t have come at a better time. Due to the aging of the membership and a lack of desire and time from the younger community, the auxiliary will be voting soon to disband. This is the final project as an auxiliary, to show those who serve or have served how thankful the Auxiliary is for their service.
The group is planning on starting a separate organization to continue helping the Laurel veterans.
One of their next projects will be moving the stone honoring veterans that was by the old city office to the cemetery by the gazebo.
Everyone is welcome to join this new organization, the only thing necessary is a desire to honor our heroes.
