SHAWNEE TOWNSHIP, (WLIO) — A new memorial honoring Shawnee Township veterans and first responders now stands at the entrance of Shawnee Township Cemetery, recognizing the service and sacrifice of the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
The memorial was a project that cemetery officials had hoped to complete for about five years before the Chained Eagles of Ohio stepped in to help make it a reality. The organization began fundraising for the project last fall, raising the money needed to construct the memorial.
The monuments honor men and women who served in all branches of the military, as well as firefighters and police officers for their selfless service to the community. The memorial also reflects the Chained Eagles' longstanding mission of remembering those who served and sacrificed for the nation.
“The Chained Eagles was started by a group of four veterans back 35 years ago. Uncle Sam wasn't answering the call of what happened to our POWs and MIAs. So, we were formed to remind Uncle Sam and to let America never forget those heroes that we still wait to return. It's not just those heroes that gave their life or made that sacrifice. It's a sacrifice that their family makes for them and for us,” says Tom Vernon, Chained Eagles of Ohio.
Shawnee Township Cemetery Sexton Lesa Wende said the organization's support was instrumental in bringing the project to completion.
“Well, the Chained Eagles have been a godsend. They were willing to to use their nonprofit, that all the money went directly to them. They took care of all the funding, all the bill paying, and they will donate this project back to Shawnee Township. I'm very proud of it and it was a very emotional time just honoring, especially today on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It's a great day,” says Lesa Wende, sexton at the Shawnee Cemetery.
Pavers are still available for purchase for those wishing to honor a veteran or first responder. For more information, contact the Chained Eagles of Ohio or Shawnee Township Cemetery.
