New veterans memorial breaks ground in Byron

A new veterans memorial is going up in Byron, and the Byron American Legion broke ground for the project on Memorial Day. The legion started working towards this memorial five years ago.

The finished product will have stone pillars with places to carve the names of those who died while serving in the military. It will cost about $360,000, and the Veterans Memorial Committee has raised just over half that amount.

"What kind of world would we have if we didn’t have our freedoms like we do today? It kind of gives me a warm feeling inside that we’ve accomplished something in my lifetime. Something greater than myself," said Carl Dewaard, the Commander of the Byron American Legion.

Legion members hope to have the memorial completed in one year or less, however they are still looking for more donations to help with construction.

Those interested in donating can call 507-775-6871.