Memorial Day tribute cancelled in San Benito
SAN BENITO – Traditional Memorial Day Ceremonies, originally scheduled on May 25, have been cancelled in San Benito.
Concerns over the threat of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic have prompted City officials to cancel or postpone all events that draw large gatherings to a confined area.
However, those persons wishing to purchase a commemorative engraved brick paver or a black granite bench for placement within the Veterans War Memorial may do so through May 29. The pavers and benches serve to memorialize the veterans in the San Benito area who served, shed blood, and lost their lives in defense of the United States of America.
The bricks sell for $100 each and contain the name, rank, military branch and service era of the honoree. Commercial and retail businesses can also purchase bricks in support of area veterans.
The black granite benches are priced at $2,500 and also contain engravings that honor or pay tribute to military personnel who have served.
With the funds generated from the sale of the bricks and benches, the Veterans Advisory Board plans to commission the creation of five black granite monuments that will feature the names of San Benito area military personnel who were killed in action, or who are missing in action.
As a result of these fundraising efforts over the past few years, the Veterans War Memorial now features two bronze pieces: One commemorating World War II era veterans, and the second honoring Korean War Veterans.
For more information on purchasing a paver or bench, please contact Martha McClain at 361-3800.