The following is an op-ed piece from Delegates Kathy Szeliga and Ryan Nawrocki

Earlier this year, we took an important step to support a project that stands as a testament to the courage, sacrifice, and commitment of the brave men and women who have served this great nation. We introduced a bond initiative to help fund the Honeygo Regional Veterans Memorial in Perry Hall—a project that means a great deal to all of us. You see, this memorial is not just a structure; it’s a beacon of gratitude, a symbol that we, the people, will never forget those who fought for our freedom and security.

The Honeygo Regional Veterans Memorial will be a 5,000-square-foot tribute, built with care and reverence. It will feature a brick pathway leading through a flag court, proudly displaying the banners of every military branch. It will bear plaques in honor of those fallen in service, from the First World War to the conflicts of today, and it will include a remembrance circle for our brothers and sisters who remain Missing in Action or were held as Prisoners of War. This project is funded through a combination of state grants, the Baltimore County Monuments Commission, and the generous contributions of private citizens. Our own bond initiative of $32,000 is a significant step toward making this dream a reality.

Located at the corner of Joppa Road and Honeygo Boulevard in Gough Park, this memorial will be a place of reflection—a place where each of us can pause and pay tribute to the service of those who answered the call of duty, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The design of the memorial incorporates a wide promenade, inspired by the solemnity of a military procession, symbolizing the journey and hardships of our service members.

One thing that we have always said is that the strength of a nation lies in its communities. That’s why community involvement is a cornerstone of this project. The Honeygo Regional Veterans Memorial Advisory Committee—comprising local leaders, veterans’ groups, and community organizations—has worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life. And with our bond initiative, we are taking a crucial step forward in ensuring the project’s success.

But this memorial is more than just stone and metal. It’s a place where we can all reflect on our shared history—on the legacy of the Honeygo area including the proud citizens who call it home today. It will be a living tribute, a place for history to be remembered and honored.

As we move forward, we urge each and every one of you to lend your support. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every little bit helps. This is our opportunity to build something that reflects our deepest respect and gratitude for those who’ve served. Together, we can create a memorial that will stand as a symbol of our unshakable appreciation for their sacrifice and dedication.

Let us honor them, not just with words, but with actions. Let’s make the Honeygo Veterans Memorial a place that future generations will visit, and with every visit, remember the heroes who made this country the land of the free and the home of the brave.