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VFW Post 1888 details three-site memorial plan; council approves up to $35,000 in city support
Summary
VFW Post 1888 leaders presented upgrades for three Trenton memorial sites — former post site, downtown WWI monument and the library memorial — and the council unanimously authorized up to $35,000 for city infrastructure support and procurement steps.
Trenton — Representatives of VFW Post 1888 on Nov. 3 presented a multi-site plan to preserve and enhance veterans memorials in Trenton, and the City Council authorized limited city support to implement parts of the work.
Lynn Bonham, chairman of the VFW committee, and John Craven outlined three primary sites for upgrades: the former VFW post site (a new flagpole, a granite engraved bench and a historical plaque noting the site), the World War I monument at St. Joseph and West Jefferson (replace the 1940 concrete base, add a life-size bronze WWI statue and add the name Frederick S. Labeaux to the plaque), and the Veterans Memorial at the library (three granite benches, paver walkway, refurbished POW/MIA monument and two life-size bronze statues flanking the flagpole).
"We would like to add a granite bench with the engraving... anything we bought would be made in the United States, it would be top quality and it would be low to minimal maintenance," John Craven said during the presentation. The committee also committed to adding pavers, landscaping and spotlights to improve long-term appearance and durability.
City Administrator Dean Creech asked the council to approve the proposed project as presented and to direct staff to execute contracts and purchases in support of the work with an amount not to exceed $35,000 for city-supported infrastructure and materials. The council moved, supported and approved the request unanimously.
The VFW presenters and council members said they hope to coordinate unveiling events with the Trenton memorial parade in 2026 if procurement and fabrication timelines permit. The VFW emphasized use of U.S.-made materials and low-maintenance choices for longevity.
What’s next: Staff will proceed with procurement and contracting steps; the administration listed follow-up tasks including ordering materials, coordinating placement and reporting back to council as contracts progress.
