Agnew was followed by Mayor Don Malan who offered many thanks to the Bates County Elks Lodge 2653 for their hard work and continued dedication that brought the idea of a monument to a full blown reality. Malan reminded onlookers of a Reagan quote "that freedom is never more than a generation away from extinction". At that, offered thanks to each and every Bates County veteran for their service.
Presiding Commissioner Donna Gregory took the podium and thanked everyone involved, and also recognized all veterans present at the event. She also spoke of how fitting is was that this ceremony fell on June 14th, Flag Day, which commemorates the adoption of the U.S. Flag 237 years ago.
Other speakers included Terry Agnew who gave a detailed account of bringing the monument to reality; and Blaine Diehl of the Missouri Elks Lodge who commended #2653 for a job well done.
Also present were the Rich Hill American Legion with a gun salute, local boy scouts, Elks Lodge members and many local veterans. The monument is located on the northwest corner of the Butler square.
See video from the dedication here
The black granite tribute honors all branches of the Armed
Forces served by Bates County Veterans
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| The beautiful tribute is located on the northwest corner of the Butler square |
