Marine Lance Cpl. “Bubba” Ferrell was laid to rest last week in Bay Minette. He was killed while serving in Afghanistan. All week I’ve been thinking about this young man who chose to wear our country’s uniform. He died in our service, and his family and loved ones bear the weight of his death. I’m deeply thankful to him and to his family. He should never be forgotten.

Men and women join the military for many reasons. For some it is a call to duty, for others it’s a means to education and training. Whatever their reasons, they set aside their civilian life, swear an oath of allegiance and dedicate themselves to preserving our nation. In peacetime they stand ready for the call, in wartime they stand in harm’s way so we don’t.

Our state has a long and rich military tradition. Alabama reportedly ranks 5th in the nation in per-capita military recruits. In 2003, the Fairhope-based Alabama National Guard 1165th Military Police Co. was activated and deployed to Iraq for 14 months. While riding in a Humvee several company members came under attack. Pfc. Allen Brandon Powell was injured, and Spc. Christopher Taylor was killed. Before, during and after their deployment, Fairhope rallied around our citizen soldiers. Shortly after their return, an effort began to create a permanent monument to all veterans and their families.

On Aug. 5, 2004, the Fairhope Veterans Memorial Committee was organized as a 501(c)3 charitable organization. Their stated mission is: “To establish a memorial that honors the service of all American veterans, their unselfish, courageous, and dedicated devotion to the defense of the United States of America, a memorial dedicated to those who have served, those who now serve, and those who have yet to serve.”

In April 2005, the Committee began soliciting designs. On Dec. 6, 2005, the submission of Fairhope resident Sarah “Sissy” Scott and Fairhope artist Stephen C. Spears was chosen. Spears’ work includes Operation Neptune: The United States Navy Monument at Normandy. Visit www.spearscreativestudio.com.

The selected design is titled “Tears of Sorrow - Tears of Joy” and symbolizes the sorrow for those lost and the joy for those who return. It will be placed on the bluff overlooking the Fairhope pier. Funding for the monument is from donations, and that is where help is needed. Although nearly $100,000 has been raised, $60,000 more is needed to complete phase one, the casting of the two larger than life-sized bronze statues.

Committee co-chair, Joe Birindelli, says the project has fallen far behind its original schedule. Lack of visibility is one reason. I searched this year’s newspaper archives for ‘Fairhope Veterans Memorial.’ I found two mentions of the monument. Sadly, I found 25 obituaries mentioning memorial services for veterans from Fairhope. These veterans will never see the completed monument in their honor.

Undaunted, and hoping for greater exposure, the Committee continues with fundraising events. Their next is Labor Day. It’s a BBQ and Concert Fundraiser at the Fairhope American Legion Hall. There will be something for the entire family. Visit www.AmericanLegion199.com for information.

Word of mouth is very important and powerful. Help spread the word. Tell your friends about the monument project, especially those who have served. Please consider supporting this cause. Your contributions will be greatly appreciated. For more information, call Joe Birindelli at 928-3292.

Chris Toney lives in Fairhope. His father and seven uncles served in the military. He worked on defense systems for General Dynamics for 10 years.