"To create and perpetuate a Memorial that honors the Sons and Daughters of Van Zandt County, Texas who left to fight for freedom and never returned, with a place of beauty and reverence where families and comrades can find peace in the memory of lost loved ones. And create in all who see this monument an understanding of the magnitude of loss we all share in the name of freedom."

Plans to build a memorial formed in early 2006 when Ronald "Red" Montgomery, a retired Army National Guard member, approached Van Zandt County Judge Rhita Koches with the idea for a memorial. For months, Montgomery and Koches shared the idea with veterans groups and anyone who would listen in hopes of finding a section of land to build the memorial.

Eventually, they approached the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), which agreed to donate 1.5 acres of land at the intersection of State Highways 19 and 243 in Canton. TxDOT, in addition to donating the land, is making the Memorial a beautification project, and has pledged to pay for half the cost. The original projected construction cost in 2006 was $300,000.00. The rise in fuel and construction prices will likely push construction costs much higher.

The Memorial Foundation is committed to constructing and maintaining a Memorial honoring our Van Zandt County military. Construction is scheduled to be begin in January 2009 and completed by July 2010. Yet for us to achieve our goals on schedule we rely on the generous donations from individuals and organizations. Fundraising is an ongoing effort. From constructing the Memorial, to maintaining a perpetual care fund, the Foundation will ensure that the Van Zandt County Veterans Memorial will last for many generations to come.

If you or your organization would like to support the Memorial with a tax-exempt donation, please send your donations by check or money order to the following address: