Wessington Springs High School senior Wesley Molnar hopes to create a lasting tribute to area veterans through his senior project: a Military Wall of Honor at the Springs Recreation Center.
The proposed display will feature six wooden pillars, each representing a branch of the U.S. military. Military branch emblems will top the pillars, with veterans' names and years of service displayed on individual metal plaques.
The Wall of Honor will be located in the hallway between the recreation center lobby and weight room.
The idea began taking shape when Molnar worked as a lifeguard in Alpena. Walking past that community's veterans memorial, which recognizes local veterans by name, he began wondering why Wessington Springs didn't have something similar.
His own military experience strengthened that conviction. Molnar serves in the South Dakota National Guard as a petroleum supply specialist with the 153rd Battalion based in Huron. Attending basic training this past summer gave him a deeper appreciation for military service and sacrifice.
"I feel that we need to honor the people willing to raise their right hand and take the oath," Molnar said. "I look at this not just as my senior project but as a community project that will continue for years to come."
With Jerry Van Den Oever serving as his project mentor, Molnar is seeking help from the community to make the Wall of Honor a reality.
Veterans and family members or friends of veterans from the Wessington Springs area are encouraged to submit names for inclusion. Information needed includes the veteran's name, military branch, year of enlistment or entry into service and year of separation, if applicable.
Molnar is also seeking sponsors to help cover the cost of materials and military branch emblems. He plans to purchase building materials locally.
Community members can learn more about the project during the Veterans Day program Wednesday, Nov. 11, at the Wessington Springs Elementary School gymnasium.
Following graduation, Molnar plans to attend South Dakota State University to study criminology, participate in ROTC and pursue a commission as a military officer.
Those wishing to submit a veteran's name or support the project may contact Molnar at (605) 350-9364.
More information can be found in this week’s print and e-edition on PAGE EIGHT