IVINS — Ivins has many reminders around town honoring pioneers, including those at Ivins City Heritage Park. Missing has been a monument to honor those from Ivins who have fought and sacrificed for the nation while serving in the armed forces.
That’s about to change after a grassroots effort created a design and is raising funds for a veterans memorial to be constructed at Ivins City Cemetery.
Earlier this year, the Ivins City Council agreed to allocate space in the cemetery after residents Laela Gaylord and Steve Corry spearheaded efforts to create the memorial.
Corry said such a monument is long overdue.
“It recognizes all of those from Ivins who have given their lives but everywhere,” Corry said. “Veterans should know their sacrifice shouldn’t be forgotten.”
Nearby, Santa Clara has had a veterans memorial, as do many other local cities. Ivins is also home to the Southern Utah Veterans Home.
A design presented to the Ivins City Council on Thursday features four large rectangular stones with Ivins veterans’ names etched on black granite atop the signature Ivins red sandstone.
Red rock benches are planned nearby as well as a large flagpole and a bronze statue designed by an Ivins artist. There will also be bricks in front that can be purchased by sponsors who would like to contribute to the park’s construction.
Those sponsors will be needed as the memorial will mostly be funded by volunteers rather than the city. Organizers say the memorial will cost between $300,000-400,000. Bricks can be purchased for $300 each and a bench can be sponsored for $3,000.
The Color Country Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is leading fundraising efforts.
“Everyone we’ve mentioned this project to has been very enthusiastic,” Corry said. “This helps our veterans see that they made a difference.”
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