Groundbreaking Set for Macomb County War on Terrorism Memorial

Macomb County has not been spared the loss of friends and family to the war on terror, and so to commemorate the lives of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, a memorial will be erected in Mount Clemens this year. 

Sponsored by the VFW Mount Clemens Post 1794 and designed by a Shelby Township couple, the "Heart of America" memorial will honor the men and women killed action in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere since war on terror began in 2001.

Community members are invited to join Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, Deputy County Executive Mark Deldin, members of VFW Post 1794 and memorial designers Phil and Norma Jean Randazzo for a groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. outside the Macomb County Administration Building in downtown Mount Clemens.

The memorial will be placed near the flagpoles at the intersection of Gratiot and Cass Avenues.

Once completed, the granite structure will stand nine-feet tall and be engraved with the names of the county’s fallen heroes. The body will be in the shape of the Pentagon and at its top will rest design elements resembling the Twin Towers and a globe to represent the worldwide impact of the war.

Estimated to cost $10,000 to complete, supporters are still working to raise the necessary funds. Community members can donate in several ways:

• All Huntington Bank locations will accept donations to the Heart of America account.
• The Treasurer’s Office at the Shelby Township Municipal Building will accept checks payable to the Heart of America.
• A limited amount of engraved granite pavers are also available for purchase, ranging from $95-$195. Forms are available at www.LincolnGranite.com.