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| THE VETERANS PARK PROJECT |
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Veterans Park, located at 3600 West Arkansas Lane in Arlington, has been steadily
improved over the years. Today there are walking trails, a pavilion, xeriscape gardens
and a Frisbee golf course for the benefit and enjoyment of the citizens of Arlington and the surrounding communities. The park however, has not adequately recognized the contributions and sacrifices of our veterans, and the support and sacrifices made by their families. A proposal for a memorial to recognize these veterans and their families was presented to the Great Southwest Rotary Board of Directors. The concept was to provide a gathering place dedicated to all veterans and to pay tribute to those service persons and their families. This memorial will provide permanent recognition of, and signal our deep respect and appreciation for, those who served in the Armed Forces of the United States, and those who died protecting our freedoms. Our Board of Directors approved the proposal, authorized the founding of a charitable foundation, and committees and planning began. Schrickel, Rollins and Associates, noted landscape architects, was selected for design and planning. Because of the size and scope of the project, construction was scheduled in phases. |
| Phase I | ||
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This phase will be supported and completed by Great Southwest Rotary and will include development of the entry area into the memorial area, 3 illuminated flagpoles and minor landscaping. Ample space for brick pavers is provided. | |
| Phase II | ||
| A spectacular bronze statue of a soldier paying his last respects at a battlefield cross is the centerpiece of this phase. This elevated statue surrounded by tall columns, is a moving tribute to the fallen. Additional minor landscaping and more paver space will be added. |  |
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| Phase III | ||
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A circular seating and water feature is planned for this phase. Additional landscaping, flatwork and space for pavers are included. A center feature of a Texas red granite star is being considered. | |
| Phase IV | ||
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A magnificent colonnade completes the memorial. Plans call for identification of the Navy,
Marine Corps, Army, Air Force and Coast Guard. Recognition of the fallen will be at their
respective service location and is reserved for those from Arlington, Dalworthington Gardens
and Pantego. Additional landscaping and paver areas are planned with the possibility of enhancement of the lake area. Dedication and recognition plaques for major donors will be place in this area. |
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Schrickel, Rollins and Associates have planned this memorial and have received approval of
the concept from Arlington Parks and Recreation and the Arlington City Council.
Plans for Phases I and II have been approved. Certification of an IRS 501 (c) 3 status has been received. We look to the citizens of Arlington and the surrounding communities for support in moving forward this deserving memorial. Sources of funding from all levels are being researched. Corporate and business recognition and cooperation is being fostered and participation of social, service and military organizations is being pursued. This is not exclusively a Great Southwest Rotary project – it is an Arlington wide endeavor. Members in Rotary and Service clubs, organizations and citizens who wish to participate are welcome. Research for names of those killed in combat areas from World War II forward is ongoing. To date more than 30 have been identified and the search continues. To recognize and honor those who made the supreme sacrifice defending our freedoms is incumbent upon all who enjoy those freedoms. |
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