Honoring Our Heroes: Vermilion’s Gold Star Memorial
Vermilion, Ohio, is preparing to honor its fallen heroes with the city’s first-ever Gold Star Memorial. This monumental project, spearheaded by Navy veteran and AMVETS Commander Malcolm Williams, will commemorate the area’s military veterans who lost their lives in action during one of our nation’s conflicts. The memorial, to be installed in Exchange Park at 641 Main Street, represents a significant milestone for the city and its community.
A Tribute Long Overdue
Gold Star Memorials hold a unique place in American history. They symbolize the sacrifices made by service members who paid the ultimate price and serve as a lasting reminder of their bravery and dedication. Despite Vermilion’s rich history and strong ties to military service, this will be the city’s first dedicated Gold Star Memorial.
The initiative underscores Vermilion’s commitment to honoring its veterans. The monument will feature the names of local service members who died in the line of duty, ensuring their contributions are remembered for generations to come. According to Commander Williams, the absence of such a memorial in Vermilion was a gap that needed to be addressed.
“There’s no memorial to our fallen casualties of war in our town,” Williams said. “In a city of our size, most everybody has one.”
A Collaborative Effort
The Gold Star Memorial is the result of collaboration among several local organizations, including AMVETS Post 22, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 7576, and the American Legion Post 397. The Vermilion Parks Department has also played a pivotal role, approving the project and supporting its integration into the community’s landscape.
Mayor Jim Forthofer has been a vocal advocate for the project, praising the city’s spirit of generosity and the commitment of local veterans’ organizations.
“Vermilionites have a legendary reputation as givers,” Forthofer said. “AMVETS Commander Williams, the VFW, and other veteran organizations have ensured that we have a solemn observation of those among us who have given the ultimate.”
The project has been funded through grants and donations, reflecting the community’s support and dedication to this cause. Administrative Assistant Jody Booker has also been instrumental in facilitating the process, creating an online submission form to collect names for the memorial.
Community Involvement Needed
One of the most critical aspects of this project is ensuring that no eligible veteran is left unrecognized. To achieve this, Commander Williams and the city are relying on the community to submit names of qualifying veterans. The submission process is straightforward, with an online form available on the city’s website at www.cityofvermilionohio.gov/veteran.
Submissions are due by February 12, 2025, and community members are encouraged to participate. This collaborative effort reflects Vermilion’s values of unity and patriotism, as residents come together to honor their fallen heroes.
Design and Significance
The Gold Star Memorial will be crafted from black granite and sandstone, crafted with durable and visually striking materials. The monument’s location within Exchange Park, near the clock and flag display, was chosen for its visibility and symbolic significance.
The site’s central location was selected for its potential to serve as a place of reflection and remembrance for the community. The choice of materials and the park’s prominent position ensure that the memorial will stand as a lasting tribute to those who served and sacrificed.
Malcolm Williams: A Visionary Leader
Commander Malcolm Williams has been a driving force behind the Gold Star Memorial project. A Navy veteran and leader of AMVETS Post 22, Williams has dedicated himself to honoring those who served. His efforts, in partnership with other veteran organizations and city officials, have made this memorial a reality.
Williams’ leadership and vision have inspired the community to rally around this cause. His commitment to ensuring that all local veterans are honored has been a guiding principle throughout the project’s development.
Looking Ahead: The Dedication Ceremony
The Gold Star Memorial will be officially dedicated on Memorial Day, May 26, 2025. This solemn event will bring together residents, veterans, and local officials to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The dedication ceremony will mark the culmination of months of effort and collaboration, serving as a poignant reminder of the community’s shared values and history.
The event is expected to be a powerful moment for Vermilion, reinforcing its commitment to honoring its veterans and fostering a sense of unity and pride among residents.
A Lasting Legacy
The Gold Star Memorial is more than just a monument; it is a symbol of Vermilion’s gratitude and respect for its veterans. It stands as a testament to the community’s enduring commitment to remembering those who served and sacrificed. By creating this memorial, Vermilion ensures that future generations will understand and appreciate the contributions of its military heroes.
Mayor Forthofer’s words encapsulate the spirit of this project:
“AMVETS Commander Williams, the VFW, and other veteran organizations have ensured that we have a solemn observation of those among us who have given the ultimate.”
Call to Action
As Vermilion prepares to dedicate its first Gold Star Memorial, the community’s involvement remains essential. Residents are urged to submit the names of qualifying veterans by the February 12 deadline. By participating, they ensure that every hero is recognized and remembered.
For more information or to submit a name, visit www.cityofvermilionohio.gov/veteran.
Together, Vermilion can honor its heroes and create a legacy of remembrance that will endure for generations.
