HERKIMER COUNTY, N.Y. (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) – As Memorial Day approaches, there are several ways to honor the men and women of Herkimer County who have served in the armed forces via the Herkimer County Veteran’s Memorial Park.
“Any veteran that has come out of Herkimer County can actually get their name on the wall,” said Richard Louis, Director at the Herkimer County Veterans Service Agency.
“It’s a small fee of $100, and we have it engraved once a year – actually probably in the month of October – right before veteran’s day.”
He continued, “I have veterans from WWI up to current conflicts on the wall so, approximately about one thousand names.”
And once these engravings are complete, right around the time of Veteran’s Day, Herkimer College holds an annual reception in which veterans can listen to guest speakers, socialize, and get recognized for their service.
But if you’re looking for a way to help as soon as possible, consider donating to the Benton Hall Academy food drive.
“Benton Hall Academy in Little Falls is holding a non-perishable food drive on the 24th and 25th in memory and in honor of those who paid the ultimate price, from the city,” said Ray Lenarcic, Director of the Herkimer County Hunger Coalition. “The food collected will go to feed our vets in Utica.”
He continued, “Schools in this area should consider doing similarly – when you die for your country, you should never be forgotten.”
If you’d like to purchase a spot on the wall for a veteran in your life, you can do so by calling 315-867-1127, or by visiting the Herkimer College website.