The
Veteran’s Tribute on the Courthouse lawn will have a beautiful
stone monument in the near future. After what seems like a lengthy
delay, it will become a reality according to the Bates County Elks
who are spearheading the project. Their Veteran’s committee has
been working on plans for a fitting, beautiful and patriotic stone
monument. They are happy to announce that the design has been
finalized. Fourteen members of the Bates County Elks have been
tossing ideas around verbally and on paper for months. After much
hard work and thought, it has been finalized. Although it is agreed
that everyone’s ideas were valuable and many were used on the
stone, Ryan Agnew, Elks member, was actually the designer who put it
all together in a respectable and proficient manner. The committee is
grateful to Ryan for all his time and dedication on the project. They
are unveiling the final drawing for the first time here on Bates County Live.
Now
as you can imagine, they are going to need monetary support. The cost
for this project has been estimated at $10,900. 00. They have
collected some funds through cash donations and donations of $10.00
to engrave names on the 10 plates already established on the
Courthouse lawn. According to Terry Agnew, Veterans Committee
Chairman of the Bates County Elks, however, they feel they should
have a sizable amount before the order for the stone monument can be
placed. Delivery then would be in about 120 days. They are now
accepting cash/check donations of any amount. They are excited that
this project is becoming a reality and are hoping other
organizations, businesses, individuals, and families will come
forward with financial support.
They
also continue to accept Veteran’s names for the 11th
plate. Each Veteran’s name is $10.00. They must have 104 names
before another plate can be ordered. Veterans must have been born in
Bates County or have served in the military while living in Bates
County to be eligible. They accept names of World War I Veterans
through the present. This includes deceased, living or active
military Veterans.
Donations
may be sent to Bates County Elks Lodge, PO Box 375, Butler, MO 64730.
Checks may be made out to Bates
County Elks Lodge
with a notation in the memo section or with a note stating it is for
the Veteran’s Tribute. Or you may call Terry Agnew 660 424-0919 for
more information or to personally make a donation. The Elks plan to
keep the public updated on the project. The Bates County Elks
continue their quest to honor all of our Bates County Veterans.
Courtesy of Rick Hurshman
