Savannah Honors WWII Veterans with New Historical Marker
In the heart of beautiful Savannah, Georgia, a significant tribute to our local World War II veterans is about to receive a special upgrade. The memorial that has stood proudly as a symbol of honor and remembrance is getting a new historical marker. This addition aims to provide visitors with a greater understanding of the memorial’s meaning while also celebrating the visionaries who made it a reality.
The Inspiration Behind the Memorial
The new marker will be presented to the city, thanks to a generous donation from Harriet Meyerhoff. Harriet was married to the late Eric Meyerhoff, the talented architect who designed this striking memorial. Completed in 2010, the memorial is a part of the broader Riverfront Urban Renewal Project. It’s a remarkable site, showcasing the deep appreciation our community holds for our brave veterans.
The idea to build this memorial took root long before its unveiling. The Veteran’s Council of Chatham County began collecting donations for this project back in the 1960s. However, it wasn’t until 2007 that serious steps were taken to bring this concept to life. It’s truly inspiring how the community’s commitment to honoring its heroes has stood the test of time.
A Design that Captures the Essence of War
Eric Meyerhoff’s winning design, dubbed “A World Apart,” perfectly encapsulates the dual struggles of the war. As described by the former president of the Veteran’s Council, Doug Andrews, the name reflects the far-reaching impact of World War II. He explained, “A World Apart. Meaning, fought global conflict on both halves of the globe, the Earth. What a gigantic effort it would be for any country, but America did it fighting in the European theatre, and the Asian theatre, and successful in both.”
Indeed, this memorial not only serves as a tribute to those who fought bravely but also highlights how Savannah played a crucial role in the war efforts. Being an active port city, Savannah was pivotal in supplying essential war materials like Liberty ships and minesweepers. These vessels were built along the Savannah River and contributed significantly to the war efforts.
Join the Celebration
Mark your calendars! The unveiling ceremony for the new historical marker is set to take place on River Street at 10 a.m. Everyone is invited to participate in this meaningful event. It’s an excellent opportunity for community members, veterans, and visitors alike to gather and pay respect to those who sacrificed so much for our freedom.
As we stand on the bank of the river, with the memorial glimmering in the sunlight, this new marker will serve as a constant reminder of the global nature of the conflict and the local contributions that were made. It’s a touching moment for all as we come together to remember, honor, and share stories of bravery and courage.
We invite you to join us in honoring our veterans and celebrating the unveiling of this new historical marker. Let’s ensure that future generations understand the sacrifices made during World War II and the role our city played in this pivotal point in history.
A Time to Remember
As the sun rises on Savannah, it’s a wonderful reminder of our past—and the importance of remembrance. This new historical marker will serve as both a guide and a tribute, offering context and honoring the heroes of our community. Together, let’s keep the memories alive and honor those who served so valiantly.
