May 08 2023
PN Ombudsman | Positively Naperville
The Naperville Gold Star Families Memorial Monument Committee is set to unveil its memorial during dedication ceremonies beginning at 2PM, Sat., May 27, in Veterans Park. The public is invited to attend.
This new Gold Star Families Memorial Monument (GSFMM) honors local families of servicemen and women who sacrificed their lives while serving in the military.
“Every Gold Star Families Memorial is ‘one of a kind,’ and we have put together a meaningful ceremony to unveil and dedicate our monument,” said Jennifer Slown, an honorary board member for the Gold Star Memorial Monument, Woody Williams Foundation. Slown, a Marine Corps Veteran, has been leading the initiative in Naperville with another Marine Corps Veteran, Lew Breese, for nearly four years.
“This tribute to Gold Star families and relatives who sacrificed a loved one for our freedom is a project of the Naperville Gold Star Family Memorial Committee,” added Breese. “With the guidance of Century Walk Corporation and the Woody Williams Foundation, the memorial now is ready for its dedication.”
Support for this effort has been constant and impactful from many donors, including generous grants from the Naperville Freemasons, Naperville Responds for Veterans, the American Legion Riders, City of Naperville SECA Fund; plus land and assistance received from the Naperville Park District.
Seating at the dedication will be provided for Gold Star Families, but the general public is requested to bring their own seating. The ceremony with music and tributes will last approximately one hour.
Veterans Park is located at 301 E. Gartner Road. Parking will be available at Grace United Methodist Church across the street.
To learn more about the Naperville Gold Star Families Memorial Monument, visit the Woody Williams Foundation at https://woodywilliams.org.
