At some point in the future, the Tablets of Honor area on the north edge of Emporia’s All Veterans Memorial could more than double in size.
Already with 11 tablets erected, another 12 could be added according to spokesman Frank Lowery on a recent KVOE Morning Show appearance.
The first phase of Tablets of Honor was far more successful than any of the organizers expected. Original plans to have six tablets on the north side of the memorial were scrapped early on because demand exceeded the available slots. Now 11 tablets are erected at the memorial and there are enough names to just about fill a 12th — and Lowery says the interest continues at a high level.
Military service personnel with proof of honorable discharge are eligible, regardless of rank, branch of service or location. Current application cost is $125.
Looking ahead to Phases 2 and 3, organizers have to raise around $150,000. That represents the full expansion amount, which is higher than the Phase 1 total because the city of Emporia contributed matching money for the project. Lowery says the $4,500 coming to Tablets of Honor as a result of the Beyond the Banners project involving Emporia Main Street, IM Design and KVOE will be a big boost.
For more information, go online to www.allveteransday.org and click on the Tablets of Honor link.
