Clayton News Daily

By Jaya Franklin

jfranklin@henryherald.com

Paver bricks for the Veterans Wall of Honor in McDonough have arrived and are being temporarily added to create the memorial monument.

The bricks are scheduled to be personalized, and later installed along the walkway of the memorial wall.

"They're putting all bricks down as blank bricks to stabilize the site," said Joanne Mulvaney, a U.S. Navy Veteran and founder of the wall. "We will send the [purchased] bricks to an engraver."

Mulvaney describes the personalized bricks as a major contribution the public can make, in order to pay tribute to active-duty troops and veterans that have served in the armed forces.

Along with the bricks, there will be 62 flagpoles and 14 cement benches available for installation as well. "The [bricks, flagpoles and benches] will be there for centuries to come," said Mulvaney. "This is a permanent remembrance for the men and women who sacrificed."

W.L. "Billy" Carter, Locust Grove councilman and owner of Metro Auction, said he thinks the Veterans Wall of Honor is a wonderful structure.

"It is something that is due to the people who fought for us," said Carter. "This is mighty little thanks that we are giving to folks who put their lives on the line."

The bricks are available for purchase, and will be on display at Heritage Park. The bricks are $35 for a 4-by-8, and $175 for a 12-by-12.

Non-veterans and businesses are encouraged to purchase bricks for the veterans' wall.

As of Friday afternoon, 1,200 bricks had been sold. "Between 1,300 and 50,000 bricks can be housed at the location," said Mulvaney, who noted that there is still time for people to purchase more bricks.

Bricks will fill up the two sidewalks leading into the entrance of the plaza and exiting the plaza.

Mulvaney said there are several plans in process for the wall of honor project. "Walker Concrete donated concrete for free, for the site," said Mulvaney, who plans to organize a benefit concert and a benefit ride in the future, led by district IV Commissioner Reid Bowman on his Harley Davidson motorcycle.

For more information, log on to: www.veteranswallofhonor.org.