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“(The) war veteran ... (has) forever sacrificed his tranquility in order that they may have theirs,” wrote David Guterson in “Snow Falling on Cedars.”
Remembering veterans is important. That’s true whether they served years ago or are in action today. Elgin recognized this in a big way, and a project just completed shows how a few people can make a big difference. Just look what was accomplished. The recent dedication of the relocated veterans memorial is illustrative of what can happen when people put their full energies behind a worthy challenge.
The veterans memorial in question was moved from a relatively obscure site on Alder Street to a highly visible location as the striking centerpiece at Clarence Witty Park. Stop by and have a look. The results speak for themselves. Or drive by on the busy highway to Wallowa County. Drivers will be reminded day and night of veterans’ sacrifices, as now the memorial flag will be lit up by three sunken well lights, shining beacons reminding us of the sacrifices veterans have made for our freedoms.
The original commemorative marble memorial and flag pole are still there. But now they are complemented by two semicircular stone benches and a brick paver stone foundation, plus the lights and the flag.
Those who serve our country to protect American values — religious faith, moral courage, individualism, entrepreneurship, the right to keep and bear arms — deserve a salute. These soldiers stand up to protect our core freedoms. They make sure we continue to have the right to bear arms, the freedom of religion and the freedom of speech.
Veterans had and have the courage to do the right thing. Make that tremendous courage. They give their blood to protect and preserve timeless values like liberty and justice. They leave a legacy of service to our country.
Christy Piercy, president, and other members of the Elgin Chamber of Commerce, the High Valley VFW Post 4060, the Elgin Lions, the Elgin Women’s Service Club, Elgin EDGE, W.C. Construction, Indian Valley Properties, Nancy Crawford of Elgin, EONL Nursery and the city of Elgin and others who had the vision to see the project to completion deserve lots of credit. Their unwavering dedication to the project speaks volumes. The result is a finished product the community can take pride in and use for inspiration to remember veterans’ sacrifices.
The community needs to express its gratitude to those who moved and refurbished the memorial — and to veterans for a job well done, and for the job they are doing that continues today around the world. We salute you.
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Opinion 
