Project Saluting Freedom

Project Saluting Freedom is a benefit fundraiser to help build the Veterans 9/11 Global War on Terrorism Memorial in Tuolumne City.

Candace Olsen, founder and spokesperson for Project Saluting Freedom was Wednesday’s KVML “Newsmaker of the Day”.

The benefit will be held on Friday night February 22nd inside of the Sonora Opera Hall. This event will consist of a BBQ dinner, dancing to the live music provided by Left of Centre, a silent auction and a live auction.

So, what is the Memorial all about?

In 2016, the Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors approved the proposed memorial on the east lawn of the Tuolumne Veterans Memorial Hall, in Tuolumne City. The 9/11 Global War on Terrorism Memorial is intended to continue with the tradition of honoring all Veterans, as well as those who lost their lives that tragic day, including the uniformed services that keep us safe; Law Enforcement, EMT/Medics and Firefighters.

This will be a multi-use memorial forum where Memorial and Veterans Day ceremonies can be held as well as other events. The memorial will feature a brick walkway leading to an elevated platform with a flagpole and stone plaques honoring those who served and lost their lives. It will also house artifacts from the Twin Towers, The Pentagon and The Shanksville Museum.

However, due to lack of funds, the project missed its completion date of fall 2017.

Olsen, who is a senior at Summerville High School said, “My respect and gratitude for Veterans is abundant and I want to help raise money to complete a very important and respected project in our area. This is an effort to help the Tuolumne Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4748 bring to life a one of a kind memorial that will honor veterans and those who have lost their lives while serving and protecting our country. I am reaching out to businesses, Veterans organizations, law enforcement agencies, firefighters, first responders, and service clubs and asking them to sponsor this memorial. I am hoping to find as many sponsors and donations as possible to make a huge impact on this event.”

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4748 have joined Olsen for this event.

Donations are tax deductible; Veterans of Foreign Wars is a non-profit 501C (19), Tax ID # 77-0446201. Contact the Sonora Area Foundation for donation information.

If you have any questions regarding dinner tickets, you can e-mail Olsen at projectsalutingfreedom@gmail.com

Information can also be found on Facebook at Project Saluting Freedom.

Additionally, T-shirts are available for just $15 each.

If you have any questions about the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4748 or The 9/11 Global War on Terrorism Memorial Project you may also contact:
Aaron Rasmussen, Commander Frank Smart, Project Chairman
Iraq Veteran Vietnam Veteran
(209) 206-6768 (209) 559-0439 (209)536-0439

The “Newsmaker of the Day” is heard every weekday morning at 6:45, 7:45 and 8:45 on AM 1450 and FM 102.7 KVML.