Mayoral Message

We all need moments that uplift us.

Maybe it’s a handwritten thank-you note. Perhaps it’s a compliment on an outfit. Or it might be the experience of working with a group of people to accomplish something larger than any individual.

I often recall a not-so-distant time when the culmination of blood, sweat, and tears resulted in the dedication of the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument in Historic Town Square on March 26, 2022.

Have you seen it yet? This beautiful monument honors the families who have lost loved ones due to their military service. Located in the heart of downtown St. George, it is an ideal location to serve those who have endured the unimaginable.

The ceremony was beautiful. Our hearts were full. There weren’t many dry eyes.

Shortly after the event, Alex Nauert, a member of the Woody Williams Foundation, pulled members of the committee together and called Woody Williams. At the time, Williams was ninety-eight years old, an Iwo Jima survivor, and the last living Medal of Honor recipient of World War II.

Williams risked his life while earning the nation’s highest decoration for valor, yet he felt compelled to serve his country further after his days in uniform had ended. He started his namesake foundation with the intent of establishing permanent Gold Star Families Memorial Monuments in communities throughout the United States.

Still possessing a spry wit, Williams expressed regret for not being able to make the dedication. He commended us on our efforts and thanked us for remembering the Gold Star families. I was honored to have that conversation with him. Three months later, Williams died.

Williams’s wartime actions on Iwo Jima were incredible and uncommon. His commitment to service beyond his military days, however, is shared by many—especially in St. George.

We are all surrounded by great veterans who continue to serve the public through veteran service organizations. These organizations helped us build awareness and were integral in raising the money needed to erect the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument.

As we approach Veterans Day, let us remember all who served our country in the armed forces and keep a special corner of our hearts open for the veterans in our community who continue to serve.

MIchele Randall, Mayor, City of St. George