Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Major Milestone for Paulding Veterans Memorial Project
PAULDING – Community members, veterans organizations, and local leaders gathered on April 9, 2026, to celebrate the official groundbreaking of the Paulding Veterans Memorial, a project years in the making that honors those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
The memorial park is being created as a tribute to both past and present service members, recognizing their contributions to preserving the nation’s freedom. Organizers emphasized that the space is intended for the entire community, offering a place of reflection, remembrance, and appreciation.
The project began on April 6, 2023, when the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) initiated efforts to bring the memorial to life under the leadership of VFW member John Daeger. Early planning included an October 13, 2023 meeting with Tim Copsey to discuss the potential purchase of church property for the site. By February 1, 2024, both the Eagles and the VFW had each contributed $5,000 to kickstart fundraising efforts.
Momentum continued to build throughout 2024, with a press release issued on April 16 announcing the project, followed by a signed purchase agreement with the Paulding County Land Bank for the property. After approximately 16 months of planning and development, the VFW officially purchased the property on August 6, 2025, and initiated the acquisition of granite monuments the same day.
Those monuments were received on March 23, 2026, marking another key step forward. Just over two weeks later, the community gathered for the groundbreaking ceremony, signaling the transition from planning to construction.
Fundraising efforts have been strong, with $238,000 raised in cash donations to date. In addition, several in-kind contributions are expected to cover the cost of concrete work, significantly advancing the project toward completion.
Project organizers took time during the ceremony to recognize the many contributors who have helped bring the memorial to this stage. Special acknowledgment was given to memorial committee members, partner organizations, and donors whose financial and logistical support has been instrumental.
Key partners include Flat Rock Concrete, Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #2405, Homier’s Monumental, John Paulding VFW Post #587, Kauser Trucking Services, Inc., the Maumee Valley Planning Organization, the Paulding County Area Foundation, the Paulding County Economic Development Group, and the Paulding County Land Bank.
Organizers also expressed gratitude to families and community members who have supported the effort over the past three years.
With construction now underway, the Paulding Veterans Memorial moves one step closer to becoming a lasting tribute to the men and women who have served, ensuring their sacrifices are remembered for generations to come.
