My Nonprofit Reviews

The first time I saw the Carroll County Veteran’s Memorial Park was only a few months after my son, Sgt. Paul Anthony Saylor, died in August of 2005 serving our country in Iraq. I was there because my son’s name was one of the first two to be added on the KIA wall for the Iraqi war. It was the first time I had seen his name in stone. Many feelings came over me as I touched his name engraved in the beautiful stone wall. Of course, sadness because I no longer had my son with me, but also a feeling of thankfulness that my son’s scarf ice for his country would never be forgotten. Because of this majestic wall that stands in a beautiful park, my son will be forever known as a hero (one of so many) that died serving his country. As a mom, it means so much knowing that my son will always be remembered even after I have long gone to see him in heaven. Every time I go for a ceremony, the park looks more beautiful than the time before. I am always proud to see how many people come to the different ceremonies, even in rain and very cold weather. I see the pride on the faces of everyone in attendance. There is reverence in the air as the National Anthem is sung and the prayers are read. To see the many veterans stand to be acknowledged, demonstrates the pride they carry for being true servants of our country. It is obvious that this park is one the veterans come to with great pride. This park is for them. Every time something new is added, it shows our veterans how much we love and appreciate them and their service. I see proud young and old faces of our military stand up to be acknowledged and am always so thankful to them. I often think about the people who took on the monumental job of seeing this park built from the very beginning. I have gone to the park several times by myself. Standing there looking at the park with no sounds around, just the wind is a very powerful moment. Knowing that because of the love, hard work and dedication of the people that still work to make this park what it is, the veterans that have passed, are retired and are proudly serving today, will never, never be forgotten. In our world today we need this type of park. Only when one reads the hundreds of names, does it sink in that the freedoms we enjoy today truly, truly are not free. There is a cost. My son paid the price, as did many other sons, daughters, fathers, brothers, and sisters. I want to extend my gratefulness to all that are involved with making this park a beautiful remembrance for all veterans.

More Feedback