There is a special place in Eisenhower Park dedicated to veterans alive and deceased from all branches of the military, who serve or have served in peacetime or wartime. The Walls of Honor, which surrounds Veteran's Plaza at the park, lists the names of hundreds of veterans, and every year since 1996 the Nassau County Veterans Monument Fund, has unveiled over 500 names etched on stainless steel panels mounted on granite walls.

A private organization not affiliated with any government agencies, the Nassau County Veterans Monument Fund was founded in late '80s by the Vietnam Veterans of America Inc. Chapter 82 and Veterans of the Vietnam War. The goal was and still is to build monuments at the Veteran's Tower to honor Vietnam War, Korean War and POW-MIA veterans. The organization has since grown to include the membership of various veteran organizations such as the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. But while it has expanded, the organization is still short of its goal to raise the $1 million and a half dollars it will need to erect the monuments, according to Treasurer Herbert Blauert.

So a few years ago while the Nassau County Veterans Monument Fund was continuing its struggle to solicit corporate donations, the organization also began establishing another fund-raising source. For a tax deductible fee $100, any veteran involved in any U.S. war whether served in combat or peacetime could have his or her name engraved on the plaques now lining the walk of flags at Eisenhower Park. Eventually biographies of each veteran included on the Walls of Honor will be computerized and available for viewing at the park's Veteran's Tower.

"It was supposed to be seed money for the monuments. But the response has been so monumental that this has been where we've been putting all our attention," said Jo-Ann Broska of the Nassau County Veterans Monument Fund.

The Walls of Honor, currently containing about 2,150 names, quickly became popular and well-appreciated by veterans and their families. Blauert said those who participate enjoy not only the unveiling ceremonies held, but also having their names recognized on the plaques.

"We feel that people have sacrificed in war and in peacetime. It's something they do to serve us all. There is no reason why future generations should forget these people," said Blauert.

Meanwhile, the organization is still looking for corporate donations as an important part of its fund-raising efforts and hopes that through perseverance, the organization's committee will solicit more businesses to come aboard and support its cause.

For more information on the Nassau County Veterans Monument Fund or for an application to have your name included on the Walls of Honor call 681-8214.