In March 2003, the Richland County Veteran's Memorial Committee was formed because it was felt that Richland County was long overdue for a Veteran's memorial. This memorial, dedicated to all Veterans of Richland County, starting with the War of 1812, will honor those who have served, those who are serving and those who will serve. It will list names of individuals who have been military personnel of a war, conflict, or in peacetime, a resident of Richland County at some period in their life and who have been honorably discharged by the military (names are being verified). We have the support of all the military Richland County organizations including the various American Legion and VFW posts, as well as the Wisconsin Vietnam Vets, Disabled American Veterans, Chapter #70 of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and all associated auxiliaries.
This Memorial is located along US Hwy 14, and actually is located next to the old railroad depot where our Soldiers/Marines boarded as far back as the Civil War to go off to war.
The conceptual design of this memorial is unlike any in the area. It will not only be a source of county history for generations to come, but it will be an amazing asset to our community. The design is honoring each wartime period and includes colors and textures familiar to that time period. Surrounding the entire memorial will fly 12 flags representing each branch of the United States Military, as well as the United States and the State of Wisconsin flags, emergency government flags and the MIA-POW flag. Many granite benches have been sold as a fundraiser as well as granite tiles with room for messages on each. There have been approximately 600 donors with varying amounts from $5.00 to $7,000 and donations continue to be received.
