September 19, 2024 4:00 a.m.

Douglas County government hosted a rededication ceremony for the county’s Veteran’s War Memorial, located in front of the courthouse, on Wednesday.

As part of the event, County Commissioner Tim Freeman said, “…We dedicate this Douglas County Veterans War Memorial as a sacred place in Douglas County where veterans will gather to share experiences or sit alone where they can ponder thoughts of which they can never share with anyone”. Freeman said, “Those who need to can use this memorial as a place of healing…”

The memorial was first constructed in 1971. The renovation project began in September 2023 and took about a year to complete. Funding was provided by an Oregon Parks and Recreation Department grant which was matched by funds from the county, the local veteran’s community, military organizations and in-kind donations. The project included a new Purple Heart Memorial, new gold star and blue star bronze plaques, two new flag poles to display the POW/MIA flag and beautifying the grounds around the memorial.

During the ceremony, commissioners also issued a proclamation naming this Friday as POW/MIA Recognition Day in Douglas County. A copy of the live video recording of the event can be found on the county government Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment

Pictures from the event are posted at www.541radio.com