LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — A major piece of the new memorial honoring veterans in Lima was put into place Wednesday morning.
A eight-foot steel flame was installed atop a nine-foot granite monument at the Veterans Memorial Civic Center, marking a key milestone in the development of the Veterans Memorial Grove.
The grove, unveiled last spring, is the result of a collaboration among veterans, philanthropists, blacksmiths, landscape architects and government officials. The space is designed to serve as an area for peaceful reflection while honoring those who have served in the military.
The flame, created by local artists Joe Bonifas and Michael Bendele, is meant to represent an eternal flame symbolizing the lasting sacrifice and service of veterans.
The flame, created by local artists Joe Bonifas and Michael Bendele, is meant to represent an eternal flame symbolizing the lasting sacrifice and service of veterans.
“What we’re trying to do is pay homage to the different services, and as we unwrap the pillars that are present, you’ll see that each service is represented,” said Bonifas, an iron sculptor involved in the project.
Organizers say additional elements of the memorial will continue to be revealed in the coming weeks. A dedication ceremony for the Veterans Memorial Grove is scheduled for May 12.
