1.   Why is there a $100 cost for the inscription of the veterans' name?
It is estimated that to build and maintain a memorial of  1,500 names on black granite tablets, the cost would be around $150,000.  In speaking to representatives from other counties that have done these projects, $100 per name will cover the costs to build the memorial.  If you have a better way of raising the money, please let a committee member know!

2.   What about veterans that can't afford, or no longer have family in the area, to cover the cost?
We have already received some donations over and above the $100 that is required; in addition, we will be applying for some grants that will hopefully cover the names of those that cannot meet the requirement.

3.   How many names do you expect to be on the memorial?
That is a difficult question!   We know there are over 1,700 veterans buried in Sac County.  There are approximately 1,000 living veterans in the county, and there is an undetermined number of veterans that lived here at one time, but have moved away.  Counties of similar size that have erected memorials in the past 5 years, have between 1,500 - 2,000 names inscribed, with room on the tablets for more.

4.   What is the size of memorial?
The architecht's rendition at this time, contains the following information:   7 granite tablets surrounded by Anamosa stone; the tablets are 5' wide x 7' tall; with the stone surround, the overall dimension of each tablet being 6'4 x 8'4.  The overall site is approximately 21' x 50' and includes 3 flag poles, recessed flood lights, and twelve bench stones.  

5.   Why was the courthouse property selected as the site of the memorial?
Constructing the memorial on the courthouse lawn, makes a magnificent "background"; it would be visibly seen traveling either east or west on Hwy 20.  It would enhance the beauty of the courthouse, which in my opinion, is the most beautiful building in Sac County.  We also felt the possibility of vandalism would be less likely if it was erected on the courthouse lawn.

6.   Did you consider having the memorial across the street, on the monument square?
That was considered.  If the memorial was constructed on the south side of Hwy 20, and wanting it visible from the highway, the background isn't as pleasing. (the background would be the old derby station, the body shop, the Fire Station, the restaurant, South State Street, houses, and the South Annex building).  Located any other direction would eliminate seeing the front of the memorial from the east, west or north.

7.   What happens if I've paid the $100 and down the road you decide there aren't enough funds to build the memorial?
Any monies given for a veterans name to be inscribed on the memorial would be refunded.

8.   When would the memorial be built?
We are hoping to have the memorial built in 2008.  It depends, of course,  on how fast the money is raised.

9.   Where do I get an application, or how do I make a donation?
The applications are available at the libraries and banks in the county, at the SETD office, at the Sac County Veterans Affairs Office, or on-line at www.saccountyveteransmemorial.com.

10.  Why do you want to build a Veterans Memorial?
As Abraham Lincoln said at the Gettysburg Address, "it is only fitting that we should do this."  As individuals, as family members, as communities in the county, let's show our appreciation to these men and women.  Let's support this project and provide a permanent remembrance for their dedication of serving our country.