'Circle of Honor': Wydysh presents Greenway funds to vets

Niagara County Legislator Rebecca Wydysh presented Veterans of Foreign Wars Downriver Post 7487 leaders with a Greenway check that will go toward the establishment of the new Lewiston Veterans Memorial.

“The county’s strong commitment to veteran services continues, and I am proud to part of a community that honors their dedication, courage and sacrifice,” Wydysh said. “My colleague, Clyde Burmaster, and I take great pride in participating in Lewiston’s new veterans memorial that will showcase and honor those who have served in defense of our freedoms.”

VFW Cmdr. Bill Justyk said, “The county’s contribution will go a long way in achieving our goal to not only recognize those who have served our nation, but to host one of the most distinctive small town memorials in America.”

The memorial will include an elevated eternal flame, a bald eagle, a map of the world, and an engraved list of names of local veterans. Details can be found online at lewistonvfw.org.

Support is still be solicited and gratefully accepted. Those interested in making a contribution can do so by visiting the website or by calling 716-343-4358.

After two years of planning and fundraising, the future landmark is now under construction at the Center Street and Portage Road corner of Academy Park. It will replace the former memorial that was dedicated in 1955.

No tax dollars are being used; the markers are funded with private contributions and Greenway funds from the Power Authority, through the Town of Lewiston and Niagara County. The Village of Lewiston is donating the park space and the “eternal flame.”

The memorial will be unveiled during a dramatic “under the lights” ceremony at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11 – Veterans Day. The public is invited to attend.