County launches paver project at the Point to honor veterans

CATSKILL―In recognition of the 250th anniversary of our nation, Greene County has announced the launch of the Veterans Paver Memorial Project, a lasting tribute honoring the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

Residents, families, businesses and organizations are invited to purchase engraved commemorative sidewalk pavers that honor a veteran, either living or passed on. The pavers will then be permanently installed at the Historic Catskill Point Veterans Memorial Site.

“This project is about remembrance, gratitude, and legacy,” said Arin Vandemark, deputy director of the Greene County Veteran Service Agency.

“As our nation approaches its 250^th anniversary, it is especially fitting to honor the veterans who defended the freedoms that make this milestone possible,” he added.

The initiative is part of Greene County’s broader efforts to commemorate the United States Semiquincentennial, when the nation will celebrate 250 years of independence.

Funds raised through the paver project will support covering the costs of the bricks and site enhancements with the residual going to veterans’ programs, while also creating a meaningful public space for reflection and community pride, according to Amanda Lyons, executive director of the Greene County Department of Human Services.

Lyons spoke about the project recently with county lawmakers and explained that it also involves the installation of new memorial stones at the site.

There would be one stone for each wartime era in the 20th century, she said.

“We will be keeping the existing monuments, just repositioning them,” Lyons explained.

One of those monuments, dedicated in 2005, honors veterans of the Gulf War, Desert Storm, Desert Shield, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom and Noble Eagle. The other pays tribute to the 14 men of Cementon who made the ultimate sacrifice in WWI, WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. It was relocated from the hamlet to the Historic Catskill Point site in 2024.

“The idea is to incorporate what is already there,” noted Lyons. “There will also be a small committee working together to design the monuments and overall appearance of the project.”

“We would put a flagpole in the center and a plaque stone that kind of speaks to what the project is and why it is there,” she added.

Vandemark, who is also the commander of Saugerties VFW Post 5034, organized a similar project there last year.

“I think he did a fantastic job,” said Lyons. “It really was nice and it was very much appreciated by all of the veterans.”

Pavers may be engraved with the veteran’s name, branch of service, years of service, or a short message of honor. Veterans from all branches and all eras are eligible, including those currently serving.

Orders are now being accepted. For pricing, engraving options, and order forms, visit www.4Everbricks.com/donors/GCKVM or contact Greene County Veterans Service Agency at 518-943-3703.

Lyons said the goal is to unveil the project for July 4.

“If we cannot make that schedule it will be unveiled at the Honor-A-Vet Ceremony on November 7,” she said.

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