Every November 11th, the nation comes together on Veterans Day to honor the brave men and women who have served our country. And in Freeport, that mission has taken on even more meaning thanks to Tim Ard, a Freeport local and Project Chair of the Freeport Veterans Memorial at Casey Park.
Ard’s compassionate and innovative vision for the Freeport Veterans Memorial at Casey Park is more than just a memorial – it’s a “thank you.” The project was born in 2010 at a meeting of the Freeport Town Planters Society when Ard and other members read a special letter penned by Beckie Buxton, the late city historian. Written on behalf of Trudy Boudreaux, a long-time Freeport community member and wife of Blue Angel flier Bob Boudreaux, the letter expressed their desire to see a veteran’s memorial in their beloved hometown. Ard was so touched by the note that he volunteered to lead the project. The rest is history.
The Freeport Veterans Memorial took 11 years to construct. Completed in 2020, the park is a true labor of love and an amazing accomplishment for a community the size of Freeport. Two final venues were unveiled in 2020: Freedom Flame and The Grace Project. While Freedom Frame is an eternal flame placed in the reflection pond, The Grace Project features five local servicewomen as a tribute to all of the female veterans.
While the memorial is a site of respect and recognition year-round, each Veterans Day, the Freeport Veterans Memorial hosts a special celebration honoring our brave service members. The ceremonies begin at 2 pm on November 11th, encouraging all members of the community to come out and show their appreciation. It’s a day (and a celebration) to remember.
Located on the grounds of Freeport City Hall, the Freeport Veterans Memorial is a truly special place. Whether you have a family member in the service or simply want to celebrate and salute our veterans, the Freeport Veterans Memorial will honor service members for generations to come.
