Modernized memorial hopes to increase engagement and enhanced experience
Planning efforts are currently underway to revitalize Dunwoody Veterans Memorial at Brook Run Park. During a 2022 Memorial Day Ceremony earlier this year, a concept plan to upgrade the memorial was unveiled by the City of Dunwoody’s Department of Parks and Recreation.
The City of Dunwoody has committed to the legacy and working with DeKalb County to continue honoring men and women in uniform through their annual Memorial Day and Veterans Day events, held at the memorial for all DeKalb Veterans. However, city officials would like to re-imagine the memorial for a more engaging, modern, and approachable experience for veterans, their families, and the public as a space to reflect on the sacrifices our veterans have made.
According to the proposed rendering, the roof and glass of the existing building would be removed. The existing brick columns would remain but will be clad in granite with an overhead steel ring encircling the columns with extended arms representing a salute. The monuments representing the six branches of the U.S. Military would also remain and the engraved ceremonial bricks would be relocated to the walkway approaching the memorial. Spotlights will illuminate the memorial at night to enhance its sense of place and importance.
To kick off the renovation efforts, Commissioner Robert Patrick has allocated $100,000 from his district discretionary funds. He recognizes the importance of keeping the memorial as an attraction and sacred space for veterans in DeKalb County and across the metro Atlanta area. “I am honored to assist in the funding of such an important site for our men and women who have sacrificed their lives to defend our democracy and way of life.”
“We are grateful for Commissioner Patrick’s partnership and support of this important project,” said Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch. “By revitalizing the Dunwoody Veterans Memorial at Brook Run Park, we’re able to demonstrate our continued gratitude for the sacrifices of all who served and their families.”
In 1998, DeKalb County purchased the site of the old Brook Run Hospital for the mentally ill after it closed in 1997. Soon after, the 102-acre property was master planned for what is now Brook Run Park. On May 31, 2004, DeKalb County and the DeKalb Veterans Affairs Advisory Board dedicated a hallowed ground memorial to serve as a remembrance to veterans from all branches of the military and to those who remain Missing in Action.
The current memorial site--once a gazebo of the old Brook Run Hospital-- began as a brick pavers fundraising program established by a group of local veterans. In 2011, the group turned over the program to the City of Dunwoody after it took over operations of the park from DeKalb County in 2010.
Commissioner Patrick will make a formal announcement of his support of the memorial at Dunwoody’s Annual Veterans Day Memorial on November 11th.. The event will be hosted by Dunwoody Parks and Recreation with support from the Dunwoody/Sandy Springs VFW Post 10822 and Dunwoody Woman’s Club. The event starts at 10:00am at Dunwoody City Hall located at 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Road.
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