As part of Veteran’s Day activities the Nevada County community also celebrated the 100th anniversary of Memorial Park, in Grass Valley, which was built by the community to honor those that fought and died in World War I. In his speech, keynote speaker Gage McKinney says the the park, completely financed by private donations and community fundraising, is a symbol of remembrance and sacrifice.

After speaking McKinney clarifying that it is sacrifice that is key to development of a community as well as individuals.

The audience was full of longtime city and county residents that have been visiting the park their entire lives. Dave Williams’ family has been in Grass Valley since before the the park was built in 1921.

He says the park has always been a way of life for Grass Valley youth in the summertime.

County Supervisor Sue Hoek also grew up at the park, and now sees it differently as an adult.

Elements at the ceremony at the park included raising of a new flag that had flown at the Iwo Jima Memorial outside Arlington Cemetery as well as a tribute to the Armed Services performed by the Grass Valley Male Choir. The original hand-penned honor roll of local World 1 participants was also unveiled.