Pasco County to Honor Gold Star Families with Two Memorial Monuments

Pasco County, FL (August 14, 2024): In a move that will bring solace and a place for reflection to families of fallen heroes, the Pasco County Property Appraiser’s Office announced the approval of two sites for Gold Star Families Memorial Monuments.

This significant project, spearheaded by a dedicated volunteer team along with the Woody Williams Foundation and Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources, aims to create lasting tributes to the families of service members who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Gold Star Families Memorial Monuments, constructed of black granite, will stand as powerful symbols of remembrance at Veterans Memorial Park in Hudson and Wesley Chapel District Park. These serene locations will offer a space for families and the community to come together and honor the fallen heroes.

The initiative is the realization of a shared vision by Honorary Board Members Jacques Hakim and Pasco County Property Appraiser Mike Wells. Their efforts were propelled forward by a dedicated team including Gold Star parent Craig Gross, Brendan Fitterer, Lisa Shippy-Gonzalez, Morgan LaValle, and Cristina Cordon.

“Gold Star Families represent and honor no one want to experience,” said Jacques Hakim. “They are the immediate family members of fallen service members, who died while serving in a time of conflict, left to live with enduring loss.”

“The construction of these monuments and their surrounding areas will be funded entirely by donations,” stated Mike Wells. “Local businesses, organizations and individuals alike have a unique opportunity to support this legacy project that will be a poignant tribute within our community.”

To learn more about the project, donate, or get involved, visit the Woody Williams Foundation website: https://woodywilliams.org/monuments/pasco-cty-fl.html. Groundbreaking is scheduled for November 2024, with a ceremonial unveiling planned for Veterans Day 2025.