A resolution designating a veterans’ memorial in Anthem as a state historical site has been sent to the Secretary of State’s office after successfully passing the Arizona Senate and House. The sponsor of SCR 1010, Senator Lori Klein, has voiced her support for the monument and its recognition as an integral part of Arizona’s history.
The Anthem monument was officially presented on Veterans’ Day 2011 and is the community’s first memorial honoring veterans. The monument was part of a multi-year collaborative effort between the community of Anthem, Rear Admiral Ron Tucker and artistic director Renee Palmer-Jones.
The monument includes five uniquely constructed white marble pillars which represent the five branches of the United States’ military –the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard. At exactly 11:11 a.m. on November 11 the monument showcases its distinctive structure by casting one long shadow across pavers bearing the names of Arizona veterans. The elliptical opening at the top of each pillar is also crafted to allow for the sun to cast light upon a seal of the United States.
“I feel privileged to be able to take part in honoring such a beautiful structure that showcases the sacrifices made by the thousands of Arizona veterans,” says Senator Klein.