In a recent announcement, the National Park Service has designated Foley as the American World War II Heritage City for Alabama. Among the 11 communities selected nationwide, Foley stands as the representative for the state, with only one community chosen from each state or territory for this prestigious honor.

This recognition is part of the American World War II Heritage Cities program, which acknowledges communities that not only played a vital role in the war effort but also continue to honor the sacrifices made by veterans and those on the home front during World War II.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich expressed his gratitude for the honor, highlighting the patriotism of Foley residents both historically and in the present.

"Foley's recognition by the National Park Service is an incredible recognition of our city and area's support of our military and veterans,” Hellmich said. “Even before World War II our area was patriotic, but it certainly peaked during our nation's World War II effort.  We should all be proud of this recognition."

The World War II Heritage Cities program aims to preserve the historic significance of the United States' domestic involvement in World War II and ensures the continued preservation of a defining period in American history.

"The American World War II Heritage Cities Program honors the contributions of local towns, cities, counties and commemorates the stories of the men, women, and children whose bravery and sacrifices shaped the U.S. home front during World War II, and still impact our country today," a statement from the National Park Service said. "Foley played a critical role in this history, and we are pleased to recognize your jurisdiction as an American World War II Heritage City through the program."

Foley's pivotal role in history dates back to December 5, 1942, when, less than a year after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. Navy established the Barin Field training center in Foley. This field served as an auxiliary training center for the Pensacola Air Station, making a substantial impact on the local economy.

The American World War II Heritage City designation also recognizes Foley's ongoing efforts to honor those who served in the conflict. The city has maintained commemorative sites, including Foley's Heritage Park, where a live oak tree planted by the Women's Club of Foley in 1943 stands as a living tribute.

Foley has expanded its memorials over the years, adding a second memorial in Max Griffin Park and incorporating anti-tank guns from the U.S. Army in 2023. The city's commitment to recognizing veterans extends beyond World War II, encompassing later conflicts as well.

Joining Foley in this prestigious designation are 10 other communities, including Tempe, Arizona; Richmond, California; Wilmington, Delaware; Waterloo, Iowa; Baltimore County, Maryland; Johnson County and Warrensburg, Missouri (joint community nomination); Hastings, Nebraska; Boulder City and Henderson, Nevada (joint community nomination); Yonkers, New York; and Bedford County, Virginia.

Since 2020, the National Park Service has designated 19 other communities as American World War II Heritage Cities, including Pensacola, Pascagoula and New Orleans. The criteria for such recognition include a city's contributions to the World War II home front effort, encompassing defense manufacturing, volunteer participation, and civil defense preparedness.

For more information about the American World War II Heritage Cities program, interested individuals can visit www.nps.gov/subjects/worldwarii/americanheritagecity.htm.