BP Veterans Memorial concrete poured

"We're getting there," remarked Blooming Prairie Veterans Memorial Committee Chairman Tom Peterson when talking about the progress of the memorial.
Concrete was poured on Oct. 4, by Lembke Construction of Blooming Prairie. 
The platform was covered with plastic because of rainfall. "All is well in spite of a weather hiccup," said Peterson.
Since the weather has created some challenges, a "walk-through" has been scheduled on Veterans Day, Sunday, Nov. 11. 
Peterson explained that a formal dedication was originally planned but because of the weather delay a "walk-through" will allow visitors the opportunity to view what is already completed on the memorial.
After a flag raising ceremony on Veterans Day, Memorial Committee members will be available at the Memorial to show everyone around and to answer questions.
Peterson said it is hoped to have about half of the granite pieces in place by Veterans Day, including the granite archway columns, POW-MIA pedestal and eagle. Wall I and Wall II with pavers are expected to be in place.
A formal dedication is hoped to be scheduled in 2019 when the BP Veterans Memorial is complete, Peterson said.
Peterson reported contributions to date at $241,850, or 96.7 percent of the $250,000 goal set in May of 2014. He said 349 pavers have been reserved for veterans.
Public support is still necessary to complete the memorial, Peterson said. Anyone desiring to reserve a wall paver for a veteran, or having questions, may call Peterson at 507-456-2017.