Many of the members of Norris-Spencer American Legion Auxiliary Unit 263 in New London, Wis., are gardeners, so it was natural for them to establish a permanent garden memorial in their community to America’s 250th birthday and veterans.

Many of the members of Norris-Spencer American Legion Auxiliary Unit 263 in New London, Wis., are gardeners, so it was natural for them to establish a permanent garden memorial in their community to America’s 250th birthday and veterans. On May 12, the commemorative garden was formally dedicated at Hatten Park. The unit had sponsored a community planting day of 250 blue grape hyacinth bulbs from Holland in October, with members also contributing offerings from their own gardens. Lynne Finch, unit treasurer and garden committee chair, came up with the idea in order – as she stated in a speech during the dedication – “to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and to honor all who have served to maintain our freedom and those who will serve in the future.” There is even a patriotic bent to the design of the garden, which also includes cogon grass with distinctive red spikes. Finch says the unit adopted it from the city and had reliability in mind when deciding what to grow. Finch is a former military “brat,” and the dedication taking place soon after April, the Month of the Military Child, is deeply meaningful to her. It is the unit’s hope that the garden will foster remembrance every time it blooms: “When you drive by or visit the park in springtime, take a moment to appreciate the never-ending commitment of our military in keeping our country free.” The American Legion National Headquarters 700 N. Pennsylvania St., P.O Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206 Updates, resources, and special offers for veterans and their families.