On Saturday, May 25th, at 9am, the dedication ceremony for Veterans Walkway was held at 301 W Mishawaka Ave, Mishawaka, IN 46545. Constructed within Battell Park, Mishawaka’s oldest and most historic park, Veterans Walkway stands as a powerful tribute to the fallen soldiers of Mishawaka. Mishawaka Mayor Dave Wood led the dedication with humility and respect, joined by Mishawaka’s veterans.
The ceremony featured several moving elements, including the singing of the national anthem, the blessing of the walkway, a 21-gun salute, and the lighting of the eternal flame. One of the most poignant features of the walkway, the eternal flame, symbolizes everlasting gratitude and respect. “I believe this in my heart to be the finest and the best, not only eternal flame; but also, monument of its type anywhere outside of our nation’s capital,” Mayor Wood remarked. “That is because we believe so much in the cause of all of you who have sacrificed for us.”
Mayor Wood invited Ross Portolese, a 100-year-old World War II veteran and former Mishawaka employee, to press the button to ignite the flame. The eternal flame signifies the continuous acknowledgment of the courage and dedication of our veterans, ensuring their contributions are never forgotten. It serves as a powerful reminder of the commitment to uphold the values and freedoms that veterans have fought to protect, symbolizing the perpetual light of liberty and the enduring spirit of those who have served. The granite memorial displays an engraving of Mishawaka’s fallen soldiers, serving as a heartfelt tribute to war veterans and fallen heroes.
The walkway’s landscape design pays homage to veterans and fallen soldiers, featuring 15 informational glass-etched displays that highlight Mishawaka’s historic war contributions. These glass displays are guarded by trees, standing tall and strong like soldiers in a row, creating a contemplative and respectful atmosphere.
As the ceremony concluded, Mishawaka war veterans performed a 21-gun salute, adding to the solemnity and honor of the event. Mayor Wood expressed his deep gratitude, saying, “You are the reason we are all here, you’re the reason why this city stands, and we want to thank you for that.”
The Veterans Walkway at Battell Park is a testament to the community’s enduring respect and admiration for those who have served. It will forever serve as a place of reflection, honor, and remembrance for Mishawaka’s veterans and fallen soldiers.
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