Patriot Field enters first phase of veteran memorial

It’s a day of remembrance for those who have fought for our nation. In honor of Veterans Day, Bingham County entered the first phase of dedication for its Patriot Field. Many people came out to witness the ceremony and ribbon-cutting.

Lt. Gov. Brad Little said he loves when communities do tributes on their own. This memorial is one of the best he has ever seen, he said.

“Local touch is always important. It’s got such a prominent place. I love the fact that the flags are all illuminated, so you could see them at night. The fact that all of the different branches of the service are represented and the fact that they’ve got a hometown sculptor that will be making the lead sculpture there,” Little said.

It is a great reminder for people to remember to honor those who have served our country, the lieutenant governor said.

“We have fewer and fewer people that serve in the military. You know, it’s their families, it’s the sacrifice they make of the Guards men and women and the active military. It’s the fact that their families are left behind. It’s important that they know the communities support them,” Lt. Gov. Little said.

Twenty-year Air Force veteran, Fred Saunders said the memorial seemed more special than other memorials he has seen in Idaho.

“I think it’s just outstanding. They made mention of the little one they had, over by the courthouse door and that just didn’t get it done. This is more elaborate. Those up there , if you want to get into them, you have to buy a brick or something,” Saunders said.

Saunders said he is one of five people in his family line to have served in the military and even though he served, he said he honors his family, as well because they played a big role while he was overseas.

“We’re the military family. I have a wife and kids and they are the ones that really served more than I did. I was gone a lot, and my wife was the mother and the dad and got the kids all raised,” Saunders said.

The second phase of the memorial will involve a sculpture and posting board. The fundraising goal is $110,000. So far, $65,000 have been raised.

If you would like to donate, contact the county commissioners.