An estimated 500 people gathered at the Gander Heritage Memorial Park on Remembrance Day, November 11
th, to pay homage and respect to our veterans and to welcome home 'Winged Victory'. Along the walkways depicting Gander's runways, stood the Salvation Army Band, Air Cadets and Sea Cadets. All fraternal orders were represented: Masons, Elks, Lions, K of C, Shriners and Rotary as well as FSNA, Chamber of Commerce, Ferry Command, North Atlantic Aviation Museum and all branches of Government: Municipal, Provincial and Federal. Present also were representatives of 9 Wing Gander, RCMP, Legion Branch #8 and Ladies Auxiliary Branch #8. A total of 53 wreaths were laid at the base of the cenotaph. Following the ceremonies we were all invited to the Legion for a great hot lunch provided by the Ladies Auxiliary.
It is impossible, from these photos, to appreciate the magnificent structure and the profound details of the refurbishment of Winged Victory accomplished by sculptor, Morgan McDonald of the Newfoundland Bronze Foundry. It is worthy of a visit to the site to see for yourself!
Remembrance Day 2013
Remembrance Day 2013
Remembrance Day 2013
Remembrance Day 2013
The Park Committee is so very proud of the accomplishments to date and recognize that this would not have been possible without the very generous donations we have received from individuals and service groups: Federal, Provincial and Municipal funding along with our other local fundraising projects. Our thanks to all of you! As well, sincere thanks are expressed for the gratuitous services of DMG Consulting Ltd., Dr. Colleen Mercer-Clarke, H. Wareham and Sons Ltd., Paul Pitcher, Doug Batson, J1 Contracting and the Town of Gander. Our costs incurred to date plus the in-kind contributions from those listed above indicates a total investment of approximately
$227,000 to this phase 1.
Because of contractor's commitments and winter's early arrival, Phase 1 of the project which included some cosmetic work to the base of the cenotaph and the construction of the base and erection of the Airmen's Memorial, were not completed this fall. These tasks will commence in early spring with the first contractors scheduled on site on May 5, 2014. Our construction plans are also to complete Phases 2 & 3 in the spring and summer of 2014. This time period will also see the sculptor fabricating the statues of Sgt. Gander and his soldier handler so they will be ready to be placed at the entrance to the Park. If current schedules are met and there are no contractor delays, all 3 phases will be completed for a rededication ceremony and formal unveiling on September 14, 2014 at the Battle of Britain ceremonies.
As we still require additional monies to complete the park, our fundraising efforts will continue in earnest throughout the winter months and, of course, we are still gratefully accepting all donations. Bill Kelly, coordinator of the November 14
th Variety Concert did such a fantastic job that we have encouraged him to organize another concert for early 2014.
(See Bill’s overview on this website). As well several groups have offered to hold fundraising events with all proceeds going to the Gander Heritage Memorial Park. This is just so amazing! Also, keep a watch for Chairman Wilson's new fundraising initiative in the next few weeks.
The Compassion monument, encompassing the two pieces of steel recovered from the World Trade Center and which will recognize Gander's role following 9/11, will become part of phase 4 of our park, scheduled for 2015. Funding has not yet been initiated for this monument and costs are expected to be in the range of $60,000 to $80,000.
We will update the website regularly so keep coming back to see how close we are to reaching our financial objectives and don't forget your comments are always welcome on this site.
A reminder to all that donations made before December 31, 2013 will be tax deductible for 2013 tax year. Official tax receipts will be issued by the Town of Gander.
Maxine Smith / December 06, 2013
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Thank you. Gerard
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