Union County veterans and families should be proud of the newly refurbished Veteran’s Memorial Wall located at Wilson Park. Beginning early summer 2019, changes went underway. Meeting the goal of completion for fall 2019, the wall is now complete with beautiful updates.

Beginning the project, all plaques were removed from the wall to get ready for a sandblasting job which was completed free of charge. The project was funded by Union County and Veteran’s fundraising dollars as well as donations from Union County businesses and sponsors. Mayor Jason Bailey and VFW Commander Arnold Smallin were the leads on this project with help and volunteer work from so many others.

There were 333 plaque memorials on the wall before remodeling began, with approximately 40 more added at the time of replacement to the wall. There is still much room for growth, with space for maybe 800 to 1000 more to be added in time.

The Veteran’s Memorial Wall was initiated under the mayoral administration of Mike Williams. The wall was painted at that time, but the paint has been peeling off and was in much need of restoration. The wall is now finished with a marble gray colored stucco finish with the shiny black plaques displayed beautifully on the backdrop.

The purpose of this memorial is to honor each and every honorably discharged veteran. To purchase a spot for a friend, neighbor, or family member, contact the Union County Mayor’s office at 865-992-3061, the local VFW, or Martin Shafer. Applicants must be honorably discharged and must present a Form DD214, which is granted at the time of discharge. Veterans of all branches, including National Guard, are welcomed to be a part of the memorial. Also, they do not have to be from Union County. This would be an honorable Christmas gift for a family.

In celebration of the rejuvenated structure, there will be a Rededication Ceremony held on November 2 at 2:00pm at the wall. Also at that time, the flag pole that was donated by the late Donna Jones will be dedicated to her with a plaque and special thanks to her family.