Special salute

Along with improved traffic flow, the latest Broadway widening project in Cape Girardeau has given motorists and pedestrians a new perspective of Freedom Corner, the memorial to Cape Girardeau Countians who have died in the service of their country. The memorial, at the corner of Broadway and West End Boulevard, includes a replica of the Statue of Liberty and four columns with bronze plaques listing the names.

New landscaping around the memorial gives the memorial new prominence at the busy intersection. And, with the help of various veterans organizations, former Marine Ron Wilson is spearheading another addition: 207 granite stones engraved with the names of men from the county who have died in military service. The stones are being engraved by Liley Monument Co. in Marble Hill, Mo.

Thanks to this effort, our community will again bring special recognition to those have made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom and liberty. We salute Wilson and his many supporters who are making this project a reality.