Local vets planning for D.C. memorial opening

On May 29, the first national monument to honor those who served in World War II will be dedicated in Washington, D.C. To celebrate the occasion, the Jackson and Cape Girardeau American Legion posts are holding their own celebrations.

"It's something that's been a long time coming, and it's wonderful," said Jackson American Legion member Jack Latimer about the national memorial. Latimer is a veteran of World War II and served 30 months overseas.

Congress authorized the memorial in 1993 and construction began on Sept. 11, 2001, at the east end of the National Mall's reflection pool, between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.

A four-day celebration of the memorial's dedication is planned for the nation's capital, including a World War II reunion and an entertainment salute to veterans. The actual dedication ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. on May 29 and will feature prededication entertainment and likely an appearance by President Bush.

Since it is not possible for all the World War II veterans in Cape Girardeau County to attend the Washington dedication, the Jackson American Legion will have a World War II Veterans Recognition Day on May 29 at the Jackson American Legion Hall. All World War II veterans from Cape Girardeau County are encouraged to attend.

The celebration will include a prayer breakfast and the presentation of certificates of appreciation.

"It's to tell the veterans that the people in the U.S. appreciate their efforts during World War II," Latimer said.

A large-screen television will be used to view the dedication ceremony in Washington.

"It seems like everybody is really enthusiastic about it," Latimer said.

Latimer said 12 people have already registered names of a World War II veteran to receive a certificate of appreciation. To register a name, call Latimer at 243-3312 or Bill Sullivan at 243-3032.

The American Legion in Cape Girardeau will hold a similar event on May 30, but it is still in the planning stages, said post commander John Powers.

"It was such a big effort, there were so many people involved in it," Powers said of World War II. "It means a lot to a lot of people."

The Cape celebration will likely take place in the Legion's new post building at 2731 Thomas Drive. The building has been under construction for about six months, and Legion members are already using it as their new headquarters.

Powers said an official dedication ceremony for the new building will probably take place in July. He would not comment, however, on information that radio broadcaster and Cape Girardeau native Rush Limbaugh contributed $50,000 to the building project.

kalfisi@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 182