Chester war memorial repairs needed

Sitting proudly on Route 154, greeting those entering town are Chester’s War Memorials. Dedicated in 1939, the World War I memorial features a granite doughboy figure atop a monument listing local veterans. In 2004, members of the American Legion Post 97 unveiled an elegant granite monument honoring Chester residents who served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam and post-Vietnam conflicts.

You only need to visit other towns in Connecticut to see what a dignified and stately memorial this is for the size of Chester.

Over the years, maintenance and minor repairs have been funded by the town of Chester, volunteers and American Legion Post 97. But 14 years have taken their toll on our Memorial. Post 97 members have identified some issues that need to be addressed — most importantly is the fence on the front perimeter of the memorial. The pressure-treated wooden fence is rotting away and needs to be replaced. Plans are to use granite posts and black chain, which will be less susceptible to the weather.

We are asking the help of our residents and friends to donate toward the replacement of the fence and ensure the memorial remain a proud focal point. Any contribution, however small, will be welcome. Donors may request to be added to a donor list that will be published in the local paper at the conclusion of our project.

Our goal is $6,000 for the new fence at the Chester’s War Memorial. If more funds are donated than what covers the price of supplies and installation of the fence, we will use those funds to repair the flagpoles. Your donations may be made out to American Legion Post 97 and mailed to P.O. Box 122, Chester, CT, 06412. All donations are tax-deductible and very much appreciated.

Jane Cable, American Legion Post 97 adjutant, Chester