Several months ago, Town Clerk Melissa Naegeli presented an idea to the Board about building a Veterans’ Memorial Park on the grounds of the Town Hall. She discussed that some of our surrounding communities offer “Hometown Heroes” banners and that the Board had previously considered that program as well, However, we are in a unique position with 2 separate hamlets and no “main drag”. Melissa told the Board she had had discussions with various residents, some Veterans some not and a park idea began to form.
After bringing the idea to the Board and being given a green light to do more research and come back with some additional plans, Melissa started researching stones, pavers, plants, etc. She soon realized she was going to need a professional to help with the planning. Keegan Oneal (Stuyvesant Falls) is a Landscape Architect has has very generously volunteered his services and expertise to move the project forward.
The drawing (next to this article on the front page) is the plan that the Board has agreed to more forward with (you can see the details on the printed copy in the Town Hall). The paths will lead from the Town Hall to the park with engraved pavers. There will be a monument honoring the Veterans being remembered, a POW monument, and our Purple Heart Community plaque will be erected in this area. The center will have the official emblems of the 6 branches of the US Military: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, National Guard, and Space Force. Blank pavers will be installed initially and will be replaced at ceremonies to install engraved blocks containing the name and information for the honored Veteran. There will be benches and plantings surrounding the area. We envision this to be a peaceful place to come and remember loved ones and reflect on their service.
The project will take time to complete and the budget process begins now. Watch for additional information and if you have ideas you want to offer, please send them to Melissa Naegeli @ TownClerk@stuyvesantny.us or stop in and see her during normal business hours. All suggestions are welcome.