The DeKalb ELKS Lodge 765 new proposed Military Veterans Memorial in DeKalb has extended the ‘personalized brick program’ until August 10. The project was developed to honor both military veterans, current military and Elk members in the northern Illinois area.
In front of the flags will be a large brick area featuring inscribed bricks to honor both military veterans, current military, and Elk members. It is located in the front ‘Plaza of Flags’ and is a place that residents and non-residents can remember loved ones who have served our country in the nation’s different service branches (deceased, living, or active duty).
The concept for this memorial came from Elk and American Legion member, Michael Embrey (USAF). “Honoring our Veterans is the least we can do, especially those that have passed and deserve recognition”, stated Embrey. “This project will help acknowledge Veterans who have done everything asked of them in their mission to serve our country. It will also be the first Memorial in the nation to include all six branches of military service.”
The image includes nine flags, the American Flag, Army Flag, Navy Flag, Marine Flag, Coast Guard Flag, Air Force Flag, Space Force Flag, POW-MIA Flag, and ELKS Flag. This area will be branded as the “Plaza of Flags”. Each of the flags and poles will be available to be sponsored by an individual, family, company, or organization. There will be a bronze plaque to acknowledge the sponsor of each flag. This lifetime sponsorship is $500.00 for pole/flag (to sponsor a flag see info below).
“The row of flags will span 55 feet, giving those coming into DeKalb and Northern Illinois University on Annie Glidden a positive welcome”, commented Robin Franklin, Elk Board Member and Co-Chair of the project. “Our Elks Lodge has a strong commitment to our Veteran Community and feel this Memorial will make the bond with our military family stronger.” The new memorial will be developed on the northern lot next to the Elks Lodge (209 S Annie Glidden Road-DeKalb, IL).
“We are extremely please to honor our local Veterans”, commented Steffanie Barringer, former Exalted Ruler Of DeKalb Elks. “We continue to give back to Veteran groups and individuals, including our recent donation to the DeKalb American Legion to help purchase additional Honor Guard uniforms.”
To purchase a memorial brick (or flag pole) for a Veteran or Elk member you wish to honor, please contact Robin Franklin for an application (ddrtfrank@gmail.com). Bricks are $100.00 (4X8) regular and $150.00 (8X8) large. Companies and organizations can purchase a larger brick to honor all Veterans.
This project is expected to be completed by late-summer, 2021.
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