“High Ground” got higher last week as the columns, lintels and medallions were erected at the Vinton/Roanoke County Veterans Monument located on Gus Nicks Boulevard in downtown Vinton.
As the sky cranes moved the bright white columns into place, designer and builder John Kirtley of Hillbilly Ponds Works of Roanoke said, “It’s more beautiful than I envisioned. I’m humbled and proud to be part of this for the veterans and the fine people of Vinton and Roanoke County.”
“It was exciting to see it go up column by column,” said Mary Beth Layman of the Town of Vinton, adding that the “lintels and medallions were shining in the sunlight. It is very beautiful.”
“I’m so impressed with the work of John Kirtley and Thor Inc. They have been very dedicated and positive — even on cold days. They have demonstrated a great deal of expertise and pride in constructing the monument,” Layman said.
The Veterans Monument is named “High Ground” — the name and design was derived from the timeless battlefield practice of soldiers seeking high ground for safety. The monument “High Ground” is unique because it will stand to honor all men and women who served America in all wars and national emergency events,” said “Bootie” Chewning, a chairperson for the Vinton Vision Committee that started the project more than two years ago.
“If it ever stops snowing, we’ll be able to move more quickly to finish the monument,” Kirtley said, adding that the 5’ x 9’ bronze flag, which is being made in Wisconsin, is nearly finished and will be the last major piece to be erected. The patio and gardens should be completed by late spring.
If you want to be involved in the “High Ground” monument, “there are still naming opportunities available,” Layman said. Several columns are available for $5,000 and several lintels for $3,000, as well as the North Rock Garden and the South Rock Garden for $2,000 each. Personalized brick pavers for the patio are available for $150 each.
Layman said that a video was created that can be viewed on YouTube at www.vrcveteransmonument.org
