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Henry County strives to recognize local and national history and to pay tribute to the men and women who gave their lives to help defend the country’s freedom. The Veterans Wall of Honor at Heritage Park in McDonough, Georgia is one of the attractions that helps accomplish this goal. Learn more about this important monument to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the USA, and contact the Henry County Convention & Visitors Bureau for more information about military history and more in Henry County.
History of the Wall of Honor
On March 15, 2004, ground was broken on the construction of the Veterans Wall of Honor. Local resident Joanne Mulvaney was inspired to create the monument as a way to honor her father, who was a veteran of World War II, and all of the other members of the Armed Forces throughout United States’ history. Working with the Henry County Board of Commissioners and sponsored by the Stokes-Morris American Legion, Post 33, the project was launched as a peaceful area where people can come and reflect on the past. After four years of construction, the Wall of Honor was dedicated on Veterans Day in 2008 and has been open to the public ever since.
Layout of the Monument
The Wall of Honor is located on a two-and-a half-acre hilltop within McDonough’s Heritage Park. The wall itself is 75 feet long and features battle scenes and quotes by important figures in American history relating to the military laser-engraved on the sides. These scenes move chronologically throughout history, starting on the left with the Revolutionary War. On the back of the wall, every conflict that the United States has been involved in is listed along with major battles in each war. The number of battlefield deceased and wounded for each conflict is also noted to provide a weighty reminder of what so many brave men and women gave for their country.
When facing the front of the wall, visitors are able to see the flags of all 50 states, which serve as a stunning backdrop that creates a sense of unity and strength. A single American flag located in the foreground flies majestically above everything else. Leading to the POW/MIA tribute is the Veterans Walk of Honor, which features the names of veterans inscribed in brick along the path. Flags and seals of every military flag line the path as well.
POW/MIA Tribute
After viewing the Wall of Honor, guests can walk down the Veterans Walk of Honor to arrive at the POW/MIA tribute, which seeks to honor all soldiers who were missing in action or prisoners of war during a conflict. This monument also comes in the shape of a wall, which curves upward, finishing in a triumphant flourish that gives hope and stirs emotion with its asymmetrical movement. The powerful words, “America keeps a vigil for those who have not yet returned” are engraved on the bottom of the wall, along with several images honoring soldiers who did not return from war. The POW/MIA flag is displayed at the center, with the emblem flying high above the monument.
A Place for Patriotism and Reverence
For those who have served in the nation’s armed forces or wish to honor those who have, Henry County offers several special locations to reflect on history and pay tribute. Be sure to include a visit to Heritage Park, home to the Veterans Wall of Honor and the Heritage Park Veterans Museum, and contact the Henry County Convention & Visitors Bureau to learn more about Henry County’s rich history. For additional information, call the Henry County Welcome Center at 678-619-5400 today.