The Memorial is a culmination of a vision of Jeanne Tritt Mathis to recognize the military service of Crockett Countians, past and present. Dedicated on November 11, 2008, the Memorial displays 4,962 names of local men and women on 15 tablets who have served our country on active duty. The black centerstone tablet reflects the 82 local names who sacrificed all for their country during service in World War I, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.

Bobby Cates, Chairman of the Veterans Association, states, "We are grateful for everyone who made donations to get our Veterans Memorial erected in 2008. It is a fabulous memorial – one which we are tremendously proud of, and one which receives favorable comments almost daily from local citizens and from out-of-county and out-of-state visitors. Now we need to adequately maintain our memorial for future generations."

According to Ira Burrow, the Veterans Association treasure, monthly donations were averaging about $300 per month, but have been far less the last few months. Such sparse donations will not fully maintain the Memorial. In addition to annual engraving costs ($19,000 the last two years) and mowing expenses, the Memorial needs a permanent chain fence and some type of cover to protect the catalog podium. The Vidalia Onion fundraiser is now underway, but other funding opportunities are necessary.

Accordingly, a "Friends of the Memorial" has been established. Anyone is welcome to be a "Friend of the Memorial." The only qualifying condition is a one time, tax deductible gift of $100 (or $25 per year over four years) to build up the balance of the Memorial account. If 500 patriots participate, the Memorial would raise $50,000 which would cover normal maintenance for years to come.

As a token of thanks, each "Friend" will receive a commemorative 1 ¾-inch diameter, Crockett County Veterans Memorial coin that recognizes all five service organizations; and each "Friend" will be recognized on a special plaque that will be posted near the memorial. The coin will be issued upon receipt of the $100 donation (whether a one time donation, or over four years), and the plaque will be dedicated on Veterans Day 2014. To become a "Friend of the Memorial," simply forward your donation to the Crockett County Veterans Association, 228 East Church Street, Alamo, TN 38001.

Crockett County is blessed to be able to show its gratitude to its veterans. The Veterans Memorial is a worthy tribute to those who have served, and deserves to be maintained at the highest level.