(posted 8/10/03)
Alabama's Purple Heart Monument Dedicated at Veterans Memorial Park

This veteran was one of many to pose in front of Alabama's Purple Heart monument after it was dedicated

On August 7th, 2003, the city of Tuscaloosa officially dedicated Alabama's Purple Heart Monument at Veterans Memorial Park.

About 500 people gathered for the unveiling ceremony, which was bittersweet for many of those who were injured, captured or lost loved ones fighting for the freedom of this country. Hal Meeker, a former commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, drove from his home in Huntsville to see the marker dedicated. He says the Purple Heart is a unique honor.

"People didn't go out seeking this medal. It just happened to them," said Meeker. "I guess you need to remember that. A lot of people have worked very hard to overcome their war wounds. You see veterans walking with a limp, or part of their hand is missing. I think part of the (Tuscaloosa) Mayor's (Al Dupont) hand is missing. People should consider that."

Mayor DuPont was twice awarded the Purple Heart for injuries sustained in battle during World War 2. He was one of several dignitaries who helped dedicate the marker. Retired Lieutenant General Bob Foley, president of the Marion Military Institute was another. Foley has received the Purple Heart and the Congressional Medal of Honor among his numerous military decorations. He says the day was a day of celebration, but also brought back tough memories.

"I think it's even more important to have a ceremony like this to reinforce the notions that everyday we will have men and women in uniform that will be going in harm's way. And they're doing it for the people of Tuscaloosa, Alabama and people all across the nation," said Foley.

Foley says he believes most people do appreciate the country's war veterans and the sacrifices they make. But he also says it is hard for people who have never faced battle to understand how it changes a person forever. That sentiment was echoed by another Purple Heart medal recipient in attendance, Al Chambers of Cottondale.

"(Our soldiers) are fighting for the liberty, the freedom and the way of life we've always had. And it's hard to do that service and try to come back and live the way
you're used to. Once you've been to other countries and seen what it's like, you'll certainly have an appreciation for this one," said Chambers. "The debilitating injuries they get, they might not recover from or they continue to be disabled throughout the rest of their lives ... like myself. I'm a disabled veteran and the older I get, the more problems I have."

Though the mood of the dedication ceremony was somber at times, it was also highly inspirational. Many took great joy in watching World War 2 veteran Sergeant Alton Olgesby receive his long-awaited Purple Heart and Bronze Star medals. The 84-year-old was like hundreds of other World War 2 veterans who have yet to receive the honor they earned nearly 60 years ago. Olgesby was wounded during a battle near Naples, Italy. His injuries were serious enough for him to be sent home. However, Olgesby refused to leave. Soon after, he rejoined his unit and fought bravely in two more battles. His medals were pinned by his son and Congressman Spencer Bachus.

"I was overjoyed by it. I loved it!" said Olgesby. "It's was a long time coming and I earned it."

Alabama's Purple Heart Monument reads "My stone is red for the blood they shed. The medal I wear is my country's way to show they care. If I could be seen by all mankind, maybe peace will come in my lifetime." The monument stands among other veterans markers at Veterans Memorial Park on McFarland Boulevard near University Mall.

See pictures of the Purple Heart Monument dedication and Veterans Memorial Park

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