Weld County Veterans Memorial facts for kids
The Weld County Veterans Memorial is a special place in Greeley, Colorado. You can find it near Bittersweet Park, at the corner of 16th Street and 35th Avenue. This memorial is built to honor the brave men and women from Weld County who have served our country. It especially remembers those who gave their lives for peace and freedom.
The memorial was officially opened on Veterans Day in 1997. Every year, important ceremonies are held here on Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Armed Forces Day. These events help everyone remember the sacrifices made by service members.
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What is the Weld County Veterans Memorial?
The Weld County Veterans Memorial is a place where people can visit and remember soldiers, sailors, and airmen. It helps us honor the people from Weld County who have served in the United States military. It's a quiet place for reflection and gratitude.
Who is Joe P. Martinez?
The main part of the memorial is a statue of Private Joe P. Martinez. He was from Ault, Colorado. Joe P. Martinez was the first person from Weld County to receive the Medal of Honor. This is the highest award a soldier can get for bravery in battle.
Why is Joe P. Martinez Honored?
A bronze plaque below his statue tells us more about him. It says that Private Joe P. Martinez died while serving his country on May 26, 1943. He was in the North American Area during World War II. The plaque includes words from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. These words remind us that brave people like Joe P. Martinez help keep freedom alive. They show us that freedom is a gift that we should always protect.
What Else Can You See at the Memorial?
The memorial also has large granite slabs. These stones remember many of the important wars and conflicts in American history. Each slab tells a short story about a war. They also show the names of the men and women from Weld County who served in those conflicts. It's a way to make sure their service is never forgotten.
