Several elected officials, including a representative from United States Senator Bernie Moreno’s office, veterans, and other dignitaries, were on hand to dedicate the Veterans’ Memorial at the Richland Township Building in Belle Center on Wednesday afternoon. The ceremony capped off roughly 10-months of fundraising efforts, including poker runs, t-shirt sales, and countless donations from folks all over the Logan County area and beyond.
The ceremony was a fitting end to an idea by Belle Center resident Anita Legge, who wanted to honor those who paid the ultimate price for the freedoms we enjoy today. Local resident Pam Gillen agreed and said a sign with the names of Logan County veterans would be a nice touch.
A committee was formed to raise funds for the project and was aided by Richland Township Trustee Tracy Baker, who learned of a grant offered by the Logan County Visitors Bureau.
Gillen said the project really was a team effort, and was struck by the way people stepped in to help in any way they could:
Gillen said it is her goal to have a QR code installed beneath the acknowledgment sign that can be scanned to reveal information about those listed on the memorial wall.
The following individuals are involved with the project:
Foundation Committee Members
- Anita Legge
- Pam Gillen
- Bev Matthews
- Shannan Penny
- Stephanie Penny
- Terri Stoker
- Renae Sheets
- Tracy Baker (Township Trustee)
Richland Township Trustees
- Gary Carson
- Matt Hurley
Other officials
- Cathy Pool – Richland Twp. Fiscal Officer
- Joe Ritter – Belle Center Fiscal Officer
- Lance Houchin – Belle Center Mayor
Others Involved
- Dennis Wilson – Contractor
- Jon Watkins – Signage
- Stan Schrader – Legion Commander
- Hal Elsasser – Legion Adjutant
