Memorial suggested

A recent article about the new veterans memorial in Kalispell brought to my attention that the private community who spearheaded the site with no tax dollars is in critical need of funding and apparently is $35,000 in debt because of construction and maintenance costs.

I would like to reach out and ask the communities help by sponsoring an inscribed brick placed at the site in Veterans Park (Depot Park in Kalispell) to raise the goal of $35,000. I propose the brick be in honor of Nick Cook, the young local Airborne infantry soldier from Hungry Horse who was tragically killed in combat in Afghanistan defending his and our country.

Nick's name will also be placed on the wall at the site. Though by sponsoring the brick in Nick's name, which range from $110 to $210 per brick, any amount of money dedicated would be a good way to help pay for the memorial, which is a granite and bronze statue of a kneeling soldier.

Please make donations to the Flathead Valley Veterans Memorial Fund at Glacier Bank, or you may contact Chuck Olson or Jack Heller, who founded the project, at 751-2911 or 253-1000.

Nick was a true American hero. God bless him and his family and thank you all.

Mark Marold

Hungry Horse