Veterans Park project sees progress

submitted by Tracey Walker

The Carter County Veterans Park is on its way up! This project started pre-covid. The Town of Ekalaka has allowed Perso Park to be the construction site of a tribute to local veterans, taking down the gazebo that once stood to make room. There have been meetings had, plans laid, donations made and bids sought.

However, the price of materials skyrocketed post covid and best laid plans fell a little behind financially, putting the project in neutral. Long story short, a portion of the park is in the process of being constructed and will be completed by summer's end.

The current portion of the project under construction - a 4 feet wide by 6 feet tall section of wall - is being built by Blake and Nathan Jewell of Jewell Masonry. Blake Jewell is the granddaughter of Carter County residents Fulton and Betty Jo Castleberry. Fulton Castleberry served in the United States Army.

This wall will be adorned with the military seal from each branch. The seals will be built by Clinton Lesh, son of Bret and Kim Lesh of Ekalaka. Lesh currently resides in Belgrade. Organizers said they are extremely excited to have local talent and heart on the project.

Upon completion in upcoming years, the remaining two walls will sit at 45 degree angles on either side of the center wall currently under construction. These two walls will bear the names of area veterans who have valiantly served their country. This is a change from the initial plans of putting the seals on benches. A seating area, flag, landscaping and lighting will put the finishing touches to the park.

Organizers would also like to thank businesses and individuals that have helped with the project so far: Carl Knapp for dirt work, Southeast Electric for the donation of electricity for construction tools, Troy Fruit for the skid steer and gravel and Lisa Jourdan for research and writing skills in getting the project set in motion.

To make a donation towards Carter County Veterans Park, send a check to the Carter County Community Foundation, a 501 3C organization at P.O. Box 237, Ekalaka; or to Ekalaka Town Office, P.O. Box 338, Ekalaka. Make checks payable to the Carter County Community Foundation and add Veterans Park in the memo line. (Dave Williams, an integral part of the committee, indicates he is more than willing to personally take donations. Can't you just see him grin?)

The Veterans Park committee thanks all in advance as community members look forward to this much needed SALUTE!