Every veteran with ties to Barton County should have a chance to be honored on the Golden Belt Veterans Memorial, Great Bend Tribune Publisher Mary Hoisington told the Barton County Commission Monday morning.
In keeping with this sentiment, the Tribune donated $1,000 to the memorial. The money is to assist in paying for engravings for those veterans who do not have the financial resources, family in the area or who served long ago and are deserving of recognition.
“Due to our appreciation and commitment to those who serve this country, the Great Bend Tribune would like to donate $1,000 to the Golden Belt Veterans’ Memorial,” Hoisington said. “This donation is specifically for those veterans whose names would otherwise not be included.” 
Hoisington said the Tribune authorizes County Administrator Richard Boeckman or his designee to identify these individuals and utilize this donation accordingly. 
“We are humbled by the sacrifice made by these men and women in order to protect our freedom and are proud to have the opportunity to show our support,” Hoisington said. She then challenged the businesses and residents of Barton County to make sure no Barton County veteran goes unrecognized. 
“Together we can honor their sacrifice through this memorial,” Hoisington said.
Commissioner Jennifer Schartz said the contribution was a great gift. “It makes me proud to be from a community where a business steps up like this.”
Meanwhile, the county continues to accept engraving applications for the memorial. The center stone, featuring seals of all US military branches, has been set and was dedicated during a ceremony the Sunday before Memorial Day. 
The names will be on two large stones that will flank the center stone. These will not be installed until 1,040 lines have been sold.
In order to be eligible for an engraving, the veteran must have lived in Barton County at some point and be honorably discharged from the military. Those currently serving are also eligible. 
The project is not limited to one conflict nor to any one branch of the service. All Barton County veterans are welcome to apply for an engraving. 
There is a $45 line charge (21 character spaces), two line maximum. With 1,040 lines available, it is anticipated that 500 to 700 more applications will be accepted. For information, contact the Barton County Administrator’s Office at 620-793-1800.