Throughout our nation’s history, service men and women have gone bravely into battle, risking their lives and livelihoods, sacrificing their safety to defend America. When their duty is done, many return home to life as it was. Sadly, for over 3 million veterans seriously injured in the line of duty, leaving the battlefield does not mark the end of conflict. These permanently disabled heroes often carry home life-altering disabilities – stern reminders of the price of freedom.
America’s disabled veterans have honored us with their service and selfless duty. It is now our turn to honor them.
For the first time, America will pay tribute to some of our most courageous heroes – our disabled veterans. The American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial will celebrate those men and women who may be broken in body – but never in spirit.
PROJECT EXECUTIVE BARRY OWENBY PRESENTS MEMORIAL STATUS REPORT TO DAV NATIONAL CONVENTION IN NEW ORLEANS
National Commander Tyson, National Adjutant Wilson, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen –
It’s a privilege and an honor to be able to provide you with an update on our progress in transforming the Memorial from a concept into reality. And although we’ve encountered some challenges along the way, I think all of you, especially in light of the last few weeks of focus on the National Debt, instinctively know that getting anything done in our Nation’s Capital takes time, a lot of patience, and most importantly, perseverance.
I’ve heard your National Adjutant remark that thinking about all the agencies, commissions, and laws in Washington that we’ve had to deal with – their acronyms -the CWA, CFA, NCPC, NPS, DOT, NCMC, AOC, DDOT – sent him to bed thinking about alphabet soup. For me it’s more like playing Scrabble but you don’t know your score until the game’s over.
I’d like to give you a brief recap of where we’ve been and how far we’ve traveled –