LET US REMEMBER
Veterans Memorials in Alachua County
2013
Alachua County Vets Remembered We are honored to present the second edition of Veterans Memorials in Alachua County. After we published our first edition in 2008, we were delighted to learn of many more veteran memorials and markers located throughout our county. We only found out about these previously omitted memorials because of our very active veteran community and organizations. It seems every time we spoke before a group, we were told of another memorial that we did not know existed. Thirty two more memorials are now included in this publication with several more being planned or built at the time of publication. It has been a most pleasant surprise to learn that Alachua County has more than 80 memorials and markers dedicated to those who have served our country. We believe that Alachua County has the most active veteran community in the United States, and it certainly leads the nation in remembering those that have given their lives defending our country. The memorials pictured in this publication pay tribute to our veterans and show the high cost of keeping a country free. Over 270 residents of Alachua County have given their lives while serving in our armed forces, and over 500 former UF students have been killed on active duty. Their names are listed on Alachua County’s premier veteran’s memorial located in Kanapaha Veterans Memorial Park off Tower Road. We can never do enough to keep their memory alive as they have given all of their tomorrows so we can enjoy our todays. Please share this booklet with others and take time to visit one or more of these memorials. Our goal is to ensure that every city/municipality in Alachua County has a hometown memorial honoring those that have served our country. It is up to all of us to make sure we keep their memories alive. Bob Gasche
Jim Lynch
Major Stroupe
US Marines, WWII/Korea US Army, Vietnam US Army, Retired Sgt. Major Alachua County Veteran Services Director
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Alachua County Veterans Organizations 40 & 8 Voiture 1388 352-367-4630 Meets at American Legion Post 16 Gainesville, FL 32609
Florida Works 352-244-5102 4800 SW 13th St. Gainesville, FL 32608
Alachua County Veterans Services Advisory Board 352-264-6740 218 SE 24th St. Gainesville, FL 32641
Gainesville High School 352-955-6792 ext 352 NJROTC 1900 NW 13th St. Gainesville, FL 32609
American Legion Post 16 352-372-8802 4701 NW 6th St. Gainesville, FL 32609
Gainesville Vet Center 352-331-1408 105 NW 75th St., Suite 2 Gainesville, FL 32607
Sons of the American Revolution 352-375-1257 3834 NW 34th Pl. Gainesville, FL 32606
American Legion Post 149 352-472-6125 26821 W Newberry Rd. PO Box 1 Newberry, FL 32669
IWO TRIO 352-376-0402 1111 NW 25th Terr. Gainesville, FL 32605
Sons of Confederate Veterans 352-486-3753 Brown’s Restaurant PO Box 331 Gulf Hammock, FL 32639
American Legion Post 230 352-494-9351 PO Box 1956 Hawthorne, FL 32640 American Legion Post 232 352-246-7645 PO Box 81 Hawthorne, FL 32640 American Legion Riders Post 16 352-481-2743 Meets at American Legion Post 16 Gainesville, FL D-Day Veterans/B. Walker 352-372-9685 546 NW 39th Dr. Gainesville, FL 32607 DAV Chapter 90 352-332-4068 2015 SW 75th St. Gainesville, FL 32607 Decrepit Birdmen 352-367-2384 Meets last Thursday of month Mr. Han’s Restaurant 6944 NW 10th Pl. Gainesville, FL 32605 Fleet Reserve Branch 179 386-454-5444 4607 NW 32nd Ave. Gainesville, FL 32606
Korean War Veterans Association 352-378-5560 Meets at American Legion Post 16 Gainesville, FL 32609 Marine Corps League Gator Detachment 352-222-8837 7257 NW 4th Blvd., PMB 166 Gainesville, FL 32602 Military Support Group of Alachua County 352-222-8837 PO Box 1926 High Springs, FL 32655 Meets at First Methodist Church 14805 NW 140th St. Alachua, FL 32615 Milton Lewis Young Marines 352-495-2710 or 352-514-3915 c/o VFW Post 2811, P.O. Box 703 1150 NE Waldo Rd. Gainesville, FL 32602 MOAA 352-335-1293 PO Box 142423 Gainesville, FL 32614 Rolling Thunder Chapter 3 352-494-2780 Meets at American Legion Post 16 Gainesville, FL 32609
Santa Fe Collegiate Veterans Society 352 395-5506 3000 NW 83rd St. Rm R-110 Gainesville, FL 32606 Sons of the American Legion Squadron 16 352-372-8802 Meets at American Legion Post 16 Gainesville, FL 32609
UF Air Force ROTC 352 392-1355 PO Box 118535 Gainesville, FL 32611 UF Army ROTC 352-392-1395 PO Box 118536 Gainesville, FL 32611-8536 UF Navy and Marine ROTC 352-392-0973 PO Box 118537 Gainesville, FL 32611-8536 UF Veterans Collegiate Society 352-395-5506 3000 NW 83rd St. Rm R-110 Gainesville, FL 32606 VETSPACE 352-222-2256 PO Box 357177 Gainesville, FL 32635 Veterans For Peace 352-375-2563 PO Box 141693 Gainesville, FL 32614 VFW Post 2811 352-462-1192 PO Box 703 Gainesville, FL 32602
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List of Memorials Central Gainesville............................. Page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34
Vietnam Veterans Monument.......................................6 Alachua County Library Monument and Flagpole.......6 Alachua County Courthouse Veterans Plaques.............7 Gainesville Masonic Lodge Flag Poll Memorial............7 Battle of Gainesville Historical Marker........................7 Desert Storm Monument.............................................8 Confederate Memorial.................................................8 Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaque.............................9 Alachua County Administration Freedom Shrine.........9 W. Haisley Lynch Memorial.........................................9 George Derrick Marker................................................10 American Legion Post 16 Historical Marker.................10 Haisley Lynch Marker..................................................10 WWI Veterans Marker.................................................10 Kirby Smith Building...................................................11 School Board Memorial...............................................11 Thelma Bolton Center..................................................11 Sergeant Jeffrey Mattison Wershow Way......................12 William H. Lynch Grave..............................................12 Jesse Johnson Finley Historical Marker........................12 Lt. E. A. Evans and Sgt. T. M. F. Miller Monument....13 D-Day Memorial.........................................................13 Hogtown Fort Marker..................................................13 Monument to Christopher T. Neiberger......................14 U.S. Army Specialist Christopher Neiberger Lane........14 Century Tower.............................................................14 Florida Field.................................................................15 Flavet Field...................................................................15 Veterans Memorial and Fountain.................................15 Van Fleet Hall..............................................................16 Blue Star Memorial Highway.......................................16 POW Wall display........................................................16 Medal of Honor Memorial...........................................17 Korea & Vietnam War Memorial..................................17
Eastside 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46
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Milton Lewis Stadium..................................................17 VFW Flags and Eagle Monuments...............................18 Milton Lewis Patio.......................................................18 U.S. Army “C.R. Layton” Reserve Center....................18 Veterans Memorial Highway........................................19 WWII Mustang Hangar...............................................19 John R. Allison Air Terminal........................................19 Welcome Home Sign....................................................20 Deployed Military Personnel Display...........................20 Forest Meadows Cemetery Memorial...........................20 Waldo Veterans Memorial Park....................................21 Dickison and His Men Marker.....................................21
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Jefferson Davis’ Baggage Historical Marker..................21 Confederate Memorial Earleton Cemetery...................22 Oak Ridge Cemetery Marker.......................................22 Rochelle Area Marker...................................................22 Micanopy Historical Marker........................................23
Northside 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59
Confederate Veterans Memorial...................................23 U.S. Army Sgt. Raymond E. Jones Jr. Road..................23 U.S. Marine PFC Joshua Welch Jr. Street Sign.............24 Lance Corporal Tomorio Burkett Road........................24 High Springs WWI – WWII Monument.....................24 Alachua Monument to All Veterans..............................25 Memorial Bricks...........................................................25 Alachua Elementary Veterans Garden...........................26
Westside 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82
Dr. C.L. Pridgen Memorial..........................................26 Gainesville High School...............................................26 USS Forrestal Plaque and Ship Bell..............................27 Haven Hospice Veterans Day Memorial.......................27 Santa Fe Patriot Circle..................................................28 Santa Fe Freedom Eagle and 9/11 Bench......................28 Santa Fe Memorial Flagpole.........................................29 Santa Fe Liberty Oak....................................................29 U.S. Marine PFC Donald Wayne Vincent Boulevard....30 Lance Corporal Philip Paul Clark Court......................30 U.S. Army Corporal Travis Rivero Avenue...................30 Ft. Clarke Historical Marker........................................31 Clair C. Chaffin Memorial...........................................31 Iwo Jima Map..............................................................32 Newberry Community Veterans Memorial...................32 POW and MIA Memorial............................................32 Alachua County Veterans Memorial.............................33 Bob Gasche Drive........................................................34 Duane Dewey Medal of Honor Memorial....................34 Korean War Lithograph................................................34 Wiles Elementary School Freedom Shrine....................35 Archer Veterans Memorial............................................35 WWII Mortars Display................................................35
The Alachua County Veterans Memorial Committee is working with the cities of Micanopy and Hawthorne to establish future veteran memorials in their cities. American Legion Post 235 in Hawthorne is also assisting with the project. If you have any knowledge of other markers missing from those listed in this booklet, please call 352-376-0402 with the necessary information.
Alachua County
Central Gainesville
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1 Vietnam Veterans Monument SE corner of University Ave. and E 1st St., Gainesville at Gainesville Community Plaza on 1st St. SE The Gainesville Unit of the Woodman of the World, a national fraternal organization that operates a private insurance company for its members, dedicated this five foot white granite memorial to the Vietnam War veterans who served from 1959-1975. It reads, “In honor of all Vietnam veterans who patriotically and unselfishly served our country.”
2 Gulf War Monument 401 E University Ave., Gainesville at Alachua County Library District Headquarters on University Ave. This is the only known county memorial dedicated to veterans who served in support of both Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm during the Gulf War between 1990 and 1991. It is located on the Main Library grounds with a 32 foot flagpole flying an American flag rising from the monument. This four-sided memorial has insignias of each branch of the military and a prominent bald eagle. The words “God Bless America” surround these symbols and an inscription honors veterans for their “bravery, courage, and determination.”
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3 Alachua County Courthouse Veterans Plaques 220 S Main St., Gainesville at Alachua County Courthouse, Criminal Justice Center at entrance Standing like open gates to the Alachua County Criminal Justice Center, two large stone tablets were erected in memory of all Alachua County veterans who gave their lives in the service of our country. All who pass through these memorials have an opportunity to read the names of our honored veterans.
4 Gainesville Masonic Lodge Memorial 215 N Main St., Gainesville at Gainesville Masonic Lodge During 1944 and 1945, Gainesville Masonic Lodge # 41 F&M opened its doors to soldiers from Camp Blanding and the US Army Air Field, located at what is now the Gainesville Airport. Each weekend, the Lodge would furnish lodging for Saturday nights. On Sunday mornings, the soldiers were furnished a breakfast of eggs, pancakes, biscuits, bacon and ham before returning to their military duties. At times, over 200 men were housed during the weekends. The Lodge remains active and is on the Federal Register of Historic Places.
5 Battle of Gainesville Historical Markers 200 E University Ave., Gainesville at Gainesville City Hall on the front patio Two historical markers recognize the military roots of this area. The first marker details the Battle of Gainesville. On August 17, 1864, Union troops were driven from the city by the Florida Calvary, commanded by Captain J.J. Dickison. The second recognizes Edmund Gaines, for whom Gainesville is named. Gaines was a commanding general during the Seminole Wars and established this territory for America.
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6 Desert Storm Monument 201 E University Ave., Gainesville at Alachua County Courthouse, Family and Civil Justice Center on University Ave. On May 18, 1991, the local television station WCJB and the City of Gainesville dedicated this brick monument to the men and women who served in Operation Desert Storm during the 1990-1991 Gulf War. The plaque reads: “This monument shall be a lasting reminder of your dedication to your country.”
7 Confederate Monument 12 SE 1st St., Gainesville at Alachua County Admin. Building on corner of University Ave. and Main St. In 1904, this life-size bronze statue was dedicated by the United Daughters of the Confederacy, Kirby Smith Chapter 202, to the “Memory of the Confederate Dead...18611865.” A bronze plaque on the wall of the County Courthouse lists names from Stonewall Camp #1438, a Confederate Veterans’ camp organized in Gainesville.
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8 Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaque 12 SE 1st St., Gainesville in Alachua County Admin. Building on 2nd floor This memorial lists 36 names of local residents killed in action during the Vietnam War. It was presented to the citizens of Alachua County from Nam Vets, Inc., a nonprofit Vietnam veterans support organization, in honor of the gallant men from our area who died in Vietnam.
9 Alachua County Administration Freedom Shrine 12 SE 1st St., Gainesville in Alachua County Admin. Building in lobby Along the wall of the main floor in the County Administration building, a display has been erected containing reproductions of many of the documents that give structure to our freedom. The Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the Emancipation Proclamation, and the Axis Powers formal declarations of surrender are exhibited. This display was presented to the citizens of Alachua County by the Exchange Club of Gainesville.
10 W. Haisley Lynch Memorial 419 NE 1st St., Gainesville behind First Methodist Church This small plaque sits in Roper Park and honors Alachua County’s first combat death during WWI. William “Haisley” Lynch was killed in action on Oct. 17, 1918, while serving as a machine-gunner with the 167th Infantry, 42nd Army Infantry Division during the MeuseArgonne Offensive in France. This plaque and surrounding trees were planted as a “living tribute” to his memory. Gainesville’s American Legion Post 16 is also named in his honor.
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Matheson Museum 513 E University Ave., Gainesville On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 1932, the American Legion, an organization of honorable U.S. war veterans, dedicated a small bronze marker to commemorate the opening of American Legion Post 16. This post is named in honor of William “Haisley” Lynch, the first local man killed in action during WWI. At one time, Lynch’s father Louis Charles Lynch was the post commander making him, perhaps, the only commander of an American Legion Post named in honor of his son. The former Haisley Lynch American Legion Post 16 building now houses the Matheson Museum, which contains many archives representing Alachua County. The four markers located around the museum and shown below commemorate our heritage from World War I to the present.
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11 George Derrick Marker
12 American Legion Post 16 Marker
13 Haisley Lynch Marker
14 WWI Veterans Marker
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Kirby Smith Building
620 E University Ave., Gainesville This building is the headquarters for the Alachua County Public School Board and is named in honor of Edmund Kirby Smith. Kirby Smith was born in St. Augustine, FL and graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in 1845. He was a lieutenant in the Mexican-American War, a major in the US Calvary, and a Confederate general during the Civil War. He commanded the last significant Confederate Army. Smith was also a mathematics teacher at West Point, school founder, university president, and professor.
16 School Board Memorial 620 E University Ave., Gainesville at Alachua County School Board Located in the front entrance of the Alachua County School Board Administration Building is this granite memorial that honors all faculty, staff and graduates who have given their lives in the service of our country.
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Thelma Boltin Center
516 NE 2nd Ave., Gainesville at Thelma Boltin Center Camp Blanding, located about 35 miles east of Gainesville, brought about 25,000 soldiers into the area with many of their families settling in Gainesville, creating housing shortages. To entertain the soldiers on weekends, the City of Gainesville erected a large recreation hall and appointed Gainesville High School drama teacher and famous folklore expert, Thelma Boltin as director. The program was a huge success as hundreds of soldiers relaxed and heard Thelma Boltin relate stories of early Florida life. 11
Sergeant Jeffrey Mattison Wershow Way
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204 SE 1st St., Gainesville street sign and plaque on wall The Gainesville City Commission dedicated this corner to Army Sergeant Jeffrey Wershow of the Florida National Guard. His unit was mobilized by the President and deployed to Iraq in early 2003. Serving in Baghdad, he provided security for Army civil affairs officers and was killed in action at the University of Baghdad.
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William H. Lynch Grave
401 SE 21st Ave., Gainesville at Evergreen Cemetery in front of cemetery office This white marble gravestone indicates the final resting spot of William “Haisley” Lynch, the first local serviceman killed in action during WWI. Lynch was serving as a machine-gunner with the 167th Infantry of the 42nd Infantry Division and was killed on Oct. 17, 1918, during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive in Cote D’Chatillon, France.
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Jesse Johnson Finley Historical Marker
401 SE 21st Ave., Gainesville at Evergreen Cemetery in the southeast corner This marker was dedicated in 1999 to honor local resident Jessie Finley who served as an Army Captain during the Seminole War of 1836. He joined the Confederate Army in 1862 and served with the 6th Florida Infantry under General Bragg in the famous battle at Chickamauga and later was promoted to Brigadier General by the US Congress.
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Lt. E. A. Evans and Sgt. T. M. F. Miller Monument
401 SE 21st Ave., Gainesville at Evergreen Cemetery in back SE corner
A large upright white marble monument (approx. 12 feet tall) was dedicated in 1890 to Lt. E.A. Evans and Sgt. T.M.F. Miller. Both died of yellow fever in 1888, while marching from Gainesville, FL to Fernandina Beach, FL to assist in the attempt to limit the many deaths caused by the fever. They were assigned to Co. A, 2nd Platoon, Florida State Troops.
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D-Day Memorial
10 SW 36th St., Gainesville at Hogtown Creek Fountain next to Fire Station #4 The D-Day Normandy Veterans of North Central Florida erected a granite monument honoring all D-Day veterans of WWII. On June 6, 1944, the U.S. and its allies hit the heavily defended beach at Normandy, France with the largest amphibious invasion force in history at the time. Carved into the stone memorial are these words: “A day that will never fade from our memory.�
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Hogtown Fort Historical Marker
1001 NW 34th St., Gainesville at Westside Recreation Center in front of office on 34th St. Near the entrance to the recreation center, a historical marker offers a brief history of Hogtown, one of the earliest settlements in Alachua County where a fort was built at Hogtown during the Second Seminole War (1835-1842). The Spring Grove Guards, a volunteer company of mounted riflemen, periodically patrolled the countryside in this area.
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Monument to Christopher T. Neiberger 812 NW 34th St., Gainesville at Littlewood Elementary School in front of Office entrance A memorial bench was dedicated to former student U.S. Army Specialist Christopher Neiberger, who was killed by a roadside bomb in Baghdad, Iraq on August 6, 2007. The bench was dedicated on November 9, 2007, and engraved on it are these words: “In loving memory of Christopher T. Neiberger and all who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom.”
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U.S. Army Specialist Christopher Neiberger Lane
1900 NW 13th St., Gainesville at Gainesville High School at back entrance on NW 16th Terr. This lane is dedicated by the City of Gainesville in honor of Christopher Neiberger who was killed in action on August 6, 2007 while serving in Iraq. He graduated from Gainesville High School in 2003, and this marker was placed next to the road leading to the High School as a permanent reminder of his sacrifice on behalf of his country, community, and sense of duty.
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Century Tower
Corner of Newell Dr. and Stadium Rd., Gainesville at University of Florida Adjacent to Turlington Plaza, Century Tower commemorates both the 100th anniversary of the founding of the University of Florida’s parent institution, Kingsbury Academy in Ocala, and the memory of all the University of Florida students killed during World War I and World War II. On the south wall of the Century Tower is a plaque dedicating the tower to these students in March of 1958. The Carillon atop the tower contains 61 bells, and was purchased in 1976 using several generations of student fees.
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Florida Field
1900 Block of University Ave., Gainesville at University of Florida inside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium Located on a brick column, near the entrance to the Bull Gator Clubhouse, a large marker dedicates Florida Field to students and alumni who lost their lives during WWI. This plaque was presented by the American Legion’s University of Florida Alumni, and lists the names of 17 men who died between April 6, 1917, and November 11, 1918.
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Flavet Field
Woodlawn Dr. , Gainesville at University of Florida corner of Woodlawn Dr. and Museum Rd. With the return of World War II veterans, the University of Florida struggled to provide housing for the large number of new students planning to further their education under the G.I. Bill. To meet this need, the university purchased 100 military barracks from nearby Camp Blanding and remodeled them as “Flavets” or Florida veteran housing. The actual dwellings no longer exist, but the UF Band Shell now stands on this site.
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Veterans Memorial and Fountain
66 Museum Rd., Gainesville at University of Florida, Reitz Union This University of Florida Veterans Memorial was dedicated on April 30, 2009 by the UF Collegiate Veterans Society. This memorial consists of a fountain in Green Pond, two flag poles, each with two flags, and six stones, one commemorative stone and five representing each of the five military branches. This UF Veterans Memorial was erected to honor all fallen Gators who died while serving our country. 15
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Van Fleet Hall
Stadium Rd., Building 0023, Gainesville just south of O’Connell Center This three-story building houses the military ROTC programs at the University of Florida, and is named in honor of General James Alward Van Fleet. General Van Fleet graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in 1915. He commanded forces in WWI, landed at Utah Beach on D-Day during WWII, and served as a general of the U.S. Eighth Army in the Korean War.
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Blue Star Memorial Highway
1601 SW Archer Rd., Gainesville at VA Hospital corner of Archer Rd. and SW 16th St. Dedicated in 2007, this memorial is part of a national highway project to honor veterans. Located on the NE corner of the VA Hospital property, this monument was presented by District Five of the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs.
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POW Wall display
1601 SW Archer Rd., Gainesville at VA Hospital Chaplain’s Office Within the room containing a small worship center and numerous depictions of military service is a P.O.W.-M.I.A. emblem and flag honoring the service of those who have been held as prisoners and those still missing. The suffering they underwent will always be remembered through prayer and community patriotic ceremonies. We all wish a safe and healthy return for all who remain missing.
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Medal of Honor Memorial
1601 SW Archer Rd., Gainesville VA Hospital at front entrance of the hospital This small plaque rests at the base of a large oak tree in front of the VA Hospital, and was dedicated in honor of all those that have been awarded our nation’s highest recognition for bravery on the battlefield.
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Korea & Vietnam War Memorial
Archer Rd. and SW 23rd Terr., Gainesville on Archer Rd. On Memorial Day 2002, the 136 Alachua County residents killed in the Korean and Vietnam Wars were officially recognized by a 40 ft flagpole with plaques listing the names of each casualty. 136 trees (49 Live Oaks, 44 Palatka Hollies and 43 Ale Elms) were planted along Archer Rd. were dedicated in memory of their sacrifices. Every year, the local chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association ties a yellow ribbon around each tree to commemorate their fallen comrades.
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Milton Lewis Stadium
1400 NE 8th Ave., Gainesville at Citizens Field on corner of 8th Ave. and Waldo Rd. The name of our local football stadium honors US Marine Corporal Milton Lewis, Gainesville’s first casualty in WWII. He landed on the island of Tulagi, August 7, 1942, with the First Marine Division and rushed a Japanese machine gun emplacement. Lewis received mortal wounds, but continued to rally his troops who successfully silenced the gun. He was posthumously awarded our nation’s second highest combat award, the Navy Cross, and a Navy destroyer was named after him. He is buried in the Evergreen Cemetery located in Gainesville.
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VFW Flags and Eagle Monument
1150 NE Waldo Rd., Gainesville at VFW on Waldo Rd. In front of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) building, a large eagle on a sixfoot block of granite extends a powerful claw reaching out to all who served our nation in wars on foreign lands. The other claw grasps a bronzed tree limb expressing loyalty and service. This memorial is flanked by two World War II tanks and surrounded by five flagpoles displaying flags for each branch of our military and an American flag. Engraved in granite is: “May we all weather the test of time together and remain one.”
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Milton Lewis Patio
1150 NE Waldo Rd., Gainesville part of VFW on the north side As part of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) meeting hall which is replete with dozens of plaques honoring men and women from all branches of the armed forces, the focal point of the Milton Lewis Patio is a plaque dedicating the patio to Marine Corporal Milton Lewis. It reads: “Gainesville’s first hero of World War II who was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for his valiant action on the island of Tulagi, August 7, 1942.”
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U.S. Army “C.R. Layton” Reserve Center 1125 NE 8th Ave., Gainesville The local Army Reserve building is named after Caleb Rodney Layton, a lifelong City of Gainesville resident who served as a captain in WWI and Adjutant of the Florida National Guard from 1917-1919. Captain Layton was also instrumental in establishing Gainesville’s American Legion Post.
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Veterans Memorial Highway
3880 NE 39th Ave., Gainesville near Gainesville Regional Airport on 39th Ave. by Airport Commemorating veterans of all military branches, this memorial highway gives notice to motorists driving along NW 39th Ave., from the Gainesville Airport to I-75, that the State of Florida recognizes and honors the contributions of veterans to our nation.
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WWII Mustang Hangar
4701 NE 40th Terr., Gainesville at University Air Center This historic hangar located in the rear of the old Gainesville Airport was used by both the US Army and Navy Air Corps during WWII. It housed many types of training aircraft, but mostly it was used by pilots training in the new P-51. A few symbols of WWII are still evident both inside and outside the hangar. The left hangar door has a painting of the WWII Army Air Corps insignia, and the right door hangar door has paintings of two P-51’s. It is still known today by airport personnel as “Mustang Hangar”.
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John R. Allison Air Terminal
3880 NE 39th Ave., Gainesville at Gainesville Regional Airport on wall inside terminal A commemorative plaque within the Gainesville Regional Airport pays tribute to our local war hero who was from the Micanopy area, Major General John R. Allison, for whom the terminal is named. Allison served in WWII and the Korean War and was highly decorated for his service to our nation. He was considered to have had the greatest flying skills in the Air Force.
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Welcome Home Sign 3880 NE 39th Ave., Gainesville at Gainesville Regional Airport on exit road out of airport In 2005, Altrusa, an international community service group, dedicated a permanent welcome home sign to honor returning veterans and express the gratitude of our community.
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Deployed Military Personnel Display
2450 Hawthorne Rd., Gainesville in Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Located in the lobby area is a display board with pictures and background information on currently deployed Sheriff’s Office personnel. Sheriff Sadie Darnell has received numerous awards for her ongoing support of active-duty military and veterans within her command. She has created a Military Support Officer to serve as a single point of contact to assist with families of those employees who are deployed, and to serve as a liaison to her employees during their deployment. In addition, a special Military Service pin was created to be worn by all armed forces members on their duty uniforms in recognition of their service/sacrifice to our country. Sheriff Darnell also created a policy to provide full escort service to military personnel killed in the line of duty returning to or traveling through Alachua County.
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Forest Meadows Cemetery Veteran Memorial Wall & Flag
3700 SE Hawthorne Rd., Gainesville at Forest Meadows Cemetery follow driveway to the right Located on the east side of the cemetery, this monument is easily identified by the large US flag flying in front. Dedicated on Memorial Day 1999, the red brick memorial honors all service personnel. Five large black granite markers depict each branch of the military. The monument dominates a section of the cemetery exclusively reserved for veterans and their spouses. It reads in part: “Forest Meadows dedicates these sacred grounds in appreciation and thanks to the men and women of our armed forces.” 20
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Waldo Veterans Memorial Park
14705 NE Waldo Rd., Waldo in downtown Waldo on east side of US 301 Veterans Memorial Park located in downtown Waldo recognizes the contributions of policemen, firemen, and US military veterans. A large American flag serves as background for this semi-circular memorial. The citizens that developed this tribute were volunteers and most of the material used in its construction was donated. Their patriotic devotion is a monument to the spirit of America.
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Dickison and His Men Historical Marker 14705 NE Waldo Rd., Waldo in downtown Waldo next to caboose Bordering the Veterans Memorial Park in the City of Waldo, a historic marker was erected by the Florida Board of Parks and Historic Memorials with cooperation from the Seaboard Air Line Railroad Company. It recognizes Florida’s Confederate Captain John Jackson Dickison for his military efforts on behalf of the South during the Civil War.
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Jefferson Davis’ Baggage Historical Marker
14705 NE Waldo Rd., Waldo in downtown Waldo next to caboose This unique historic marker, erected by the Florida board of Parks and Historic Memorials in cooperation with Seaboard Air Line Railroad Company in 1965, is located next to the Veterans Memorial Park in Waldo. After the dissolution of the Confederate Government on May 5, 1865, Confederate President Jefferson Davis fled south by railroad and was captured in Georgia on May 10. His personal baggage, as well as secret confederate papers, traveled separately to Florida. They were seized in a house near the current marker on June 15, by a detachment of Union soldiers. 21
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Confederate Memorial Marker
9304 State Highway 200A, Earleton at Earleton Cemetery on CR 1469 near Earleton Named for General Elias B. Earle who fought in the U.S./ Mexican War and received a land grant for his service. In the 1864 Battle of Gainesville, he served under Captain J. J. Dickison and led his men down what is now East University Avenue. After the war, he became president of the Green Cove Springs to Melrose Railroad.
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Oak Ridge Cemetery Marker
SE County Road 234, Rochelle at Oak Ridge Cemetery on CR 234 In 1860, Governor Madison Starke Perry recommended secession for the State of Florida. A year later, the Florida Convention adopted secession, causing the governor to order evacuation of all United States troops from Florida military installations and their replacement by state troops. Later, he joined the Confederate Army and served as a Colonel until illness forced his resignation in 1863. Governor Perry died in 1865 and is buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery.
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Rochelle Area Marker
Intersection of CR 234 and the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail near Rochelle A raid in 1812 by Colonel Daniel Newnan of the Georgia Militia was an attempt to annex Florida to the United States which resulted in a fierce battle with the Seminole Indians. Later, Fort Crane was built during the Second Seminole War, and by 1840 settlers had moved into the area. In August 1864, Union troops passed near Rochelle en route to Gainesville where the Confederate Calvary defeated them. Today, only a few buildings remain as a reminder of the early days of Rochelle.
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Micanopy Historical Marker
NE Peach Ave., Micanopy at corner of NE 4 Ave. and NE Peach Ave. At the onset of the Second Seminole War, families sought safety in Micanopy, which was then named Fort Defiance. In 1836 the Battle of Micanopy took place, resulting in most of the buildings being burned. In 1837, Fort Micanopy was erected, and in the following years agriculture prevailed as the main industry of the area.
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Confederate Veterans Memorial
15115 NW 142nd Terr., Alachua at Newnansville Cemetery Located in the back section of the Newnansville Cemetery is this tall memorial erected in memory of the Confederate Veterans who gave their lives during the Civil War, 1861-1865. So many were lost during this conflict that we must never forget their many sacrifices.
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U.S. Army Sgt. Raymond E. Jones Jr. Road
Corner of US 441 and CR 235-A, Alachua at Santa Fe High School on US 441 sign This road was dedicated by the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners in honor of U.S. Army Sergeant Raymond E. Jones Jr. Sergeant Jones was killed April 9, 2004, in a rocket-propelled grenade attack while serving with U.S. Army forces in Bayji, Iraq.
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U.S. Army P.F.C. Joshua Welch Jr. Road
Intersection of SR 235 and CR 241, Alachua A portion of County Road 241 is dedicated to Joshua Welch Jr., a local resident who was killed in action during the Vietnam War. Joshua was from the City of Alachua and joined the Army not long after graduating high school. He was an infantryman assigned to C Company, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division (Big Red One) and died of multiple fragmentation wounds on December 11, 1966, in Vietnam. His name is listed on Panel 13 E, Line 37 on the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, DC.
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Lance Corporal Tomorio Burkett Road
Corner of CR 1493 and SR 121, LaCrosse in LaCrosse Dedicated by the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners in honor of USMC Lance Corporal Tomorio Demetrius Burkett. Corporal Burkett attended local schools and was killed in action on March 23, 2003, while helping to secure a bridge on the outskirts of An Nasiriyah, Iraq.
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High Springs WWI – WWII Monument
110 NW 1st Ave., High Springs at High Springs City Hall on US 27 to the left of City Hall High Springs American Legion Post 97 dedicated this memorial on October 11, 1980 , “In honor of those who served in time of war.” The memorial’s reverse side has a listing of all known High Springs residents who were killed in action during WWI and WWII.
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Alachua Monument To All Veterans
1500 NW 142nd Terr., Alachua in front of Alachua City Hall The City of Alachua dedicated this memorial on May 28, 2007. It is located in front of City Hall and flies the American, State of Florida, and POW/MIA flags twenty-four hours a day. The memorial has a pentagon shaped monument with the inscription: “This monument is a tribute from the City of Alachua dedicated to past, present, and future veterans of all Armed Services that have served and will serve in times of war and peace to ensure the freedom of the United States of America. The City acknowledges these veterans and commends them for their courage, bravery and sacrifices to make this nation proud and free. May God Bless America.” Next to the US flagpole is another monument with color plaques representing each branch of the military. In the background are two sculptures depicting sets of combat boots with inverted rifles and helmets resting on top. This is the international symbol showing respect to a fallen soldier.
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Memorial Bricks 1500 NW 142nd Terr., Alachua in front of Alachua City Hall These memorial bricks are part of an ongoing fundraising cause benefiting the local U.S. Marine Corps League “building fund.” These bricks, located just in front of Alachua’s Veterans Memorial, are placed in honor of loved ones and especially those who have been killed in action. Over 115 bricks have been sold so far, representing veterans from WWII through today’s conflicts, with many more still available. Call 352-222-8837 for additional information.
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Alachua Elementary Veterans Garden 13800 NW 152nd Pl., Alachua at Alachua Elementary School walk NW from front parking lot Alachua Elementary honored veterans by dedicating a special “Veterans’ Garden” on the school grounds. This grey granite marker is located in the garden area next to the school office and is dedicated specifically to Glynn R. Markham. Mr. Markham was a WWII navy veteran who served aboard the USS McCook during the 1944 D-Day Invasion of Normandy. Glynn was very active in local veterans affairs and was the founder of the Alachua County D-Day Veterans Group. He also arranged the school’s annual Veterans Day Ceremony and spoke to thousands of school children about our country’s role in WWII.
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Dr. C.L. Pridgen Memorial
4701 NW 6th St., Gainesville west Entrance of American Legion Post 16 Located at the base of the American flag is a plaque dedicated to Dr. C.L. Pridgen. This “good Legionnaire” served in the Army during WWI as a surgeon with the 119th Field Artillery. Upon his return to Gainesville, he set up a family medical practice and worked with local veterans as a Grand Master at the Masonic Lodge. Dr. Pridgen was also active with the American Legion serving as Post Commander in 1935. He is buried in Evergreen cemetery.
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Gainesville High School Memorial 1900 NW 13 St., Gainesville at Gainesville High School This small granite plaque located just outside the school’s office was dedicated in 1966 as a tribute to all men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Members of Gainesville’s Civinettes Club worked together, during the height of the Vietnam War, to raise funds to make sure our veterans are never forgotten.
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USS Forrestal Plaque and Ships Bell
3800 NW 6 St., Gainesville at Stephen Foster Elementary School This ship’s bell, from the USS Forestal- CVA-59, hangs above the entrance to Stephen Foster Elementary School in Gainesville. On loan from the US Naval Air Museum, it serves as a memorial to the 134 sailors who lost their lives in the flight deck fire that broke out on July 29, 1967. During the Vietnam War, the ship was involved in launching an airstrike when a Zuni rocket was accidentally discharged, causing a flight deck fire that took almost 18 hours to extinguish. Senator John McCain was one of the pilots waiting in line to launch when the fire broke out. He was able to escape unharmed, but shortly after was shot down and taken prisoner of war by the North Vietnamese. This fire resulted in many modifications to Navy ships with new regulations requiring every sailor be trained as a firefighTerr. The accompanying plaque has been donated to the school as an educational tool, so that staff, students and visitors alike know the story behind the bell.
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Haven Hospice Veterans Day Monument
4200 NW 90th Blvd., Gainesville at Haven Hospice by entrance A small granite block honoring all veterans greets visitors as they enter the beautifully landscaped Haven Hospice, E.T. York Care Center located in The Health Park. Carved on the memorial are these words: “On the occasion of Veterans Day this 11th day of November 2003 in recognition of all the patients, employees, and volunteers of Hospice of North Central Florida, we gratefully dedicate this monument in honor of all those who have dutifully served our nation. May their sacrifices never be forgotten.”
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Santa Fe Patriot Circle 3000 NW 83rd St., Gainesville at Santa Fe College in front of Administration entrance
The Patriot Circle that enriches the entrance to Santa Fe College (SFC) was dedicated on September 11, 2003. Brick walkways lead to the centerpiece harboring a large U.S. flag surrounded by four smaller flags representing the State of Florida, POW/MIA, SFC, and one for special occasions. Sponsored by the SFC Collegiate Veterans Society, this memorial is enhanced by a large plaque mounted in the circle honoring the memory of John Travis Rivero and Jeffrey Wershow, who lost their lives in the service of our country in Iraq. A summation of the dedication follows: “Today we stand proud and united under those banners and dedicate this Patriot Circle to honor all of the 270 Santa Fe students who served in the armed forces. We are here to honor and respect them for what they stood for. May we never forget their devotion and sacrifice as we embrace the heritage of their giving and know that their legacy is truly the foundation of America’s spirit and greatness.”
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Santa Fe Freedom Eagle and 9/11 Bench
3000 NW 83rd St., Gainesville at Santa Fe College behind S Bldg. The Freedom Eagle and bench were dedicated on March 14, 2012 by the SFC Collegiate Veterans Society. The 300-pound bronze eagle, sculpted by Doug Corsini, was dedicated in honor of two SFC students, US Army Specialist Jeffrey Wershow, who was killed in Iraq in 2003, and John Parker, a U.S. Marine Corps Afghanistan combat veteran who was murdered in the Ocala National Forest in 2006. This granite bench was placed to allow solemn reflection of the 9/11 tragedy that has affected the lives of so many.
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Santa Fe Memorial Flagpole 3000 NW 83rd St., Gainesville on soccer field on south side of campus Dominating the west side of the Santa Fe College campus is a 30 x 60 foot American flag that offers a stirring, picturesque view of Old Glory flying high atop a 110 foot flagpole. The base of this memorial, which was dedicated on Flag Day, June 14, 2006, portrays evidence of a community mindful of our sovereignty and freedom with these words: “In honor of those who have served our nation in times of war and peace…in memory of those who have paid the highest cost for the freedom we hold so dear.” Three spotlights provide the illumination necessary for nighttime visibility, and the flag can be seen throughout the night by viewers on campus and millions of travelers driving by on Interstate I-75.
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Santa Fe Liberty Oak
3000 NW 83rd St., Gainesville on south side of campus The Liberty Oak Memorial was dedicated November 14, 2010, during the All American Liberty Fest by the Santa Fe Collegiate Veterans Society. It stands as a memorial to all veterans, especially those that studied at SFC, who fought and sacrificed their lives for our country.
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U.S. Marine PFC Donald Wayne Vincent Boulevard Fort Clarke Blvd., Gainesville at corner of Ft. Clarke Blvd. and NW 23 Ave. Located at the intersection of Ft. Clarke Blvd. & NW 23rd Ave. a U.S. Marine Corps colored street sign honors Marine PFC. Donald Wayne Vincent. PFC Vincent was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force when he was killed in action on July 25, 2009, while serving during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Wayne was from Gainesville and attended local schools before joining the Marines. He was 26 years old when he died serving his country.
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Lance Corporal Philip Paul Clark Court
at corner of NW 55 St., and NW 8 Ave. The Gainesville City Commission named Northwest 55th Street in honor of U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal Philip Clark who was killed in action on May 18, 2010. Lance Corporal Clark was serving with the 1st Battalion, 6th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. He was proudly serving his country when he died at age 19.
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U.S. Army Corporal Travis Rivero Avenue
5510 NW 27th Ave., Gainesville at Buchholz High School on street sign This memorial sign will always be a reminder that United States Army Corporal Travis Rivero served his country with honor and paid the ultimate price for protecting the freedom we now enjoy. Corporal Rivero was killed on April 17, 2003 while serving with the U.S. Army when his Humvee overturned near H-1 Airfield in western Iraq.
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Ft. Clarke Historical Marker 9121 W Newberry Rd., Gainesville at Ft. Clarke Baptist Church
This marker was placed in the vicinity of Ft. Clarke Army Post which was active during the Second Seminole Indian War. The post was named for Lieutenant Henry Clarke, 5th U.S. Infantry and later became an active settlement that remains part of Gainesville today. During the Indian Wars, the following known posts were established: Ft. Brooks located near the mouth of Orange Lake Creek; Ft. Crane seven miles north of Micanopy and named for Colonel. I.D. Crane, 1st U.S. Artillery; Ft. Drane ten miles south of Micanopy named for Captain G.S. Drane, 2nd U.S. Artillery; Ft. Gilliand located near Newnansville; Ft. Harlee on the banks of the Santa Fe River named for Wm. H. Harlee, South Carolina Volunteers; and Ft. Walker located near Orange Lake named for Captain William H.T. Walker, 6th U.S. Infantry. Other posts were probably active during this period but historical information was not available.
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Clair C. Chaffin Memorial
6791 W Newberry Rd. at Jason’s Deli The IWO TRIO, an organization comprised of survivors of the battle for Iwo Jima, honor Clair C. Chaffin, now deceased, by displaying this memorial that commemorates his many contributions of service to our country in both peace and war. He fought in four Pacific battles during WWII and was awarded the Silver Star, our nation’s third highest award, for gallantry in action.
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Iwo Jima Map 6791 W Newberry Rd. at Jason’s Deli Antique map of Iwo Jima signed by some of the participants of that bloody battle hangs on the wall at Jason’s Deli where survivors and their friends meet monthly. Plaques representing the 3rd, 4th, and 5th Marine Divisions are mounted under the Marine flag along with photos of the battle.
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Newberry Community Veterans Memorial
25440 W Newberry Rd., Newberry at Newberry City Hall Entrance This memorial located in front of Newberry City Hall was dedicated in 1988 by the mayor and city commission. It displays emblems of each of the five branches of the military and reads: “In Honor of those who Served.”
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POW and MIA Memorial Plaque
I-75 mile 381 I-75 Paynes Prairie Rest Area A plaque located on the walkway of the I-75 Paynes Prairie Rest Area building is inscribed with these compelling and poignant words that recognize and honor the veterans who are missing or being held by enemy forces: “The light of freedom still burns brightly in our world today because of the service and sacrifice of America’s men and women in uniform. Our nation’s servicemen and women have fought the forces of tyranny and won victories for liberty, human dignity and the ideals of democracy. We remember with profound gratitude those who suffered captivity and those whose fate remain unknown…you shall not be forgotten.” 32
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Alachua County Veterans Memorial
7400 SW 41st Pl., Gainesville at Kanapaha Veterans Memorial Park Tower Rd. and SW 41st Pl. Alachua County’s premier veterans memorial came about after Mrs. Nina Stanley, widow of WWII veteran Thomas L. Markham, attended a public meeting of the County Veterans Advisory Board. Mrs. Stanley’s husband was killed in action and buried in a National Cemetery in Europe, and she wanted to know where the local Veterans Memorial was located so she could go and pay her respects on Memorial Day. Board members looked at each other and responded that Alachua County did not have such a memorial. Ms. Stanley expressed dismay and wagged her finger at the Board and proclaimed “shame on you, every hometown should have a Veterans Memorial.” Three years and $150,000 later, Alachua County’s Veterans Memorial was ready for public display. Dedicated on Veterans Day, November 11, 1993, the memorial was christened “A Walk Through Time.” Each square foot upon the walkway represents one year in time. The walkway is 14 feet wide and 219 feet long and contains 10 individual monuments representing our nation’s 10 major wars, starting with the Revolutionary War and ending with Operation Desert Storm. The name and dates of each war is etched upon the monument, and each individual red brick on top represents 1,000 lives lost. The ring of black marble around each monument represents the international sign of mourning. The names of those from Alachua County who lost their lives while in service are etched into the monuments upon the memorial. Over 260 names of local veterans have been written into the granite. Large granite markers alongside the concourse reflect the names of over 500 of University of Florida students who died while in service. The listing of names is a stark reminder to all visitors that sovereign freedom requires labor and sacrifice. In addition, a plaque behind the US flag is dedicated to Jim McCawley and Doug Tanner, founders of the Memorial. Alachua County’s Veterans Memorial has received national acclaim for its simplicity and educational value to our community. Thousands of area school children have visited the site to learn about the sacrifices veterans have made in service of our nation. Today, the memorial is host to annual ceremonies attracting citizens from all walks of life coming to pay their respects. Note: Renovations are currently planned to include recognition of County Veterans killed in action during the Global War on Terrorism. 33
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Bob Gasche Drive
7400 SW 41st Pl., Gainesville at Kanapaha Veterans Memorial Park Tower Rd. and SW 41st Pl. The veteran community of Alachua County dedicated the street leading in and out of the County Veterans Memorial at Kanapaha Veterans Park in honor of Bob Gasche. Bob is a WWII Marine Corps veteran who fought and was wounded in the famous battle on Iwo Jima. He has since been active in many local veteran organizations with a goal of dedicating a veteran’s memorial in every city within the county boundaries.
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Duane Dewey Medal of Honor Memorial
7400 SW 41st Pl., Gainesville at Kanapaha Veterans Memorial Park Tower Rd. and SW 41st Pl. This beautiful triangular memorial honoring Duane Dewey, Alachua County’s only Medal of Honor recipient, is located on the walkway leading to the new Freedom Community Center in Kanapaha Park. A complete description of how and where Corporal Dewey earned his medal is located just inside the new Freedom Community CenTerr. A photo of President Eisenhower presenting him the award is also on display. American Region Post 16 past commander Ed Van Buren, son of veteran, veteran and father of veteran, proudly designed this beautiful memorial.
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Korean War Lithograph
7400 SW 41st Pl., Gainesville in Freedom Center at Kanapaha Veterans Memorial Park This lithograph depicts US Army units preparing to engage enemy forces at the Chosen Reservoir during the Korean War. Shortly after the lithograph was taken, elements from the Chinese Army invaded South Korea and overran this exact location and everyone depicted in this lithograph was killed, wounded or taken prisoner of war. One of the founders of Alachua County’s Veteran Memorial, Army Sgt. Doug Tanner, was one of those captured. He endured many years of extreme hardship until his release at the end of the war. Doug Tanner stayed in the military and retired as a First Sergeant and dedicated the remainder of his life to veterans’ causes. 34
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Wiles Elementary School Freedom Shrine
4601 SW 75th St., Gainesville in the front entrance hallway Located in the lobby area of Wiles Elementary are reproductions of military historical documents. Included in this patriotic display are copies of U. S. Army Brigadier General Anthony C. McAuliffe’s famous handwritten reply of “Nuts” to WWII German forces requesting his immediate surrender. Also available for viewing are copies of both the German (May 7, 1945) and Japanese (September 2, 1945) Instruments of Surrender ending WWII.
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Archer Veterans Memorial
16671 SW 137th Ave., Archer This memorial is dedicated to all Archer community veterans who have given their lives, and to those still serving our country with distinction, loyalty and honor to preserve our freedoms. Their sacrifices have given us a liberty that we will continue to cherish and enjoy. Each branch of service is engraved giving credit to their contributions that have made America the great nation it is.
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WWII Mortars Display
101 Magnolia St., Archer at Maddox Foundry Maddox Foundry was established in Archer in 1905, and is still today a working machine foundry. During WWII, the foundry was awarded a wartime government contract to manufacture mortars for the U.S. Army. Between 1942 and 1946, they produced over 4 million high explosive shells with a workforce mostly made up of women. The display is located in the office reception area at the foundry in Archer.
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FREEDOM IS NOT FREE
Produced by Alachua County Manager Rick Drummond’s Communications Office under the direction of Mark Sexton, Communications Coordinator. Designed by Takumi Sullivan, Alachua County Graphic Designer. Edited by Bret Bostock, Alachua County Public Information Specialist and Erika Capin of Alachua County Administrative Services. Compiled, written and edited by Bob Gasche, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, and Jim Lynch, US Army Veteran. Cover photos by Takumi Sullivan. Santa Fe Memorial Flagpole photo by Kim Kendall, Santa Fe College. Veterans Memorial and Fountain photo by Santa Fe Collegiate Veterans Society. All other photos by Mike Fara and Takumi Sullivan. Maps by Jimmy Collins, Alachua County GIS Specialist. Paid for by the Alachua County Tourist Development Tax.