November 11, 11 a.m. — a date and time to remember for Hackett area residents who turned out to be a part of the veterans memorial dedication service.
A committee formed in the City of Hackett in 2021 with the intent of honoring local military men and women. On Saturday, November 11, that project come to fruition with the dedication of the new veterans memorial.
Hackett residents Dane and Bettye Goodwin have spearheaded the project. Dane Goodwin, a 40-plus year decorated Army veteran, recognized the need to honor those who served so proudly.
Over the course of two years, the committee secured the funding for the project, and are excited to have it on display for generations to come.
“We have many to thank for making this memorial even possible,” stated Goodwin. “However, they ask not to mention them so as to not take away from what this dedication is all about. You know who you are, and thanks very much…”
An emotional Mayor Louis Kirkendall spoke of gratitude and importance of being a free nation.
“This memorial is special because of what it stands for…It represents our veterans, their sacrifice, but it also represents our city. It was hewn from a local quarry, and a local boy did the engraving and polishing of the stone.”
As the flag rippled above, the patriotic sounds of “Ragged Old Flag” filled the air. Many with tear filled eyes, bowed their heads in a closing word of prayer with Brother Joe Silva.
“We our deceased and living retiree veterans and their family members everything we can bestow on them for keeping this great United States of America free,” concluded Goodwin.
