A Promise That Became a Legacy: Founders Plaque Dedication at Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial

 

Recently, Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial in Perryville, Missouri welcomed supporters, Veterans, families, and friends to gather for a meaningful moment of reflection, gratitude, and recognition, the dedication of our Founders Plaque.

This ceremony was more than an unveiling. It was a moment to pause and remember how this Veterans Memorial in Missouri began.

Before there were pathways, monuments, or a place for visitors to reflect, there was a promise.

That promise was made by Jim Eddleman while serving in Vietnam, to honor the men who never made it home. It was a promise that did not fade with time. Instead, it was carried forward by a group of dedicated individuals who believed deeply in that mission and worked to bring it to life.

Because of their commitment, that promise became a foundation.

And that foundation became Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial.

 

Honoring the Founders of Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial

 

The Founders Plaque stands as a permanent tribute to the individuals whose vision, courage, and unwavering belief made this Veterans Memorial in Missouri possible.

We are proud to recognize:

Founders

Jim & Charlene Eddleman

Founding Board

Frank Robinson

Todd Huber

Michael & Vicki Lundy

Don Fulford

Board Members

Brent Buerck

Paul Gard

David Crader

Kate Martin

Roger Wibbenmeyer

Executive Director

Nancy Guth

Each of these individuals gave their time, energy, resources, and heart to something greater than themselves. Because of them, Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial is not just a place, it is a space for healing, education, and remembrance for generations to come.

 

A Moment of Remembrance

 

During the ceremony, we paused to honor two individuals who are no longer with us but whose impact will forever be part of this Memorial: Charlene Eddleman and Mike Lundy.

Their spirit, dedication, and belief in this mission continue to live on in every corner of these grounds and in every visitor who walks them.

 

Carrying the Mission Forward

 

As we reflect on this milestone, we are reminded that this story is not finished.

The work of our founders created opportunity, opportunity to grow this mission, to reach more Veterans, and to ensure that every visitor leaves with a deeper understanding of service and sacrifice.

That is their legacy.

And it is one we are committed to protecting, strengthening, and carrying forward.

 

Thank You

 

To those who helped build this Memorial, thank you.

To those who continue to support it, thank you.

And to our Veterans, we do this for you, always.

As we dedicated the Founders Plaque, we gave thanks for the opportunity to gather, to remember, and to continue this mission together.

Never Forgotten.