A local committee is working to honor Erie County veterans who served in the Global War on Terrorism through the creation of a new memorial at the Erie County Veterans Memorial Park.
The project, known as the Erie County Global War on Terrorism Memorial, is being planned as a tribute to the military men and women who served following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, as well as those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The proposed memorial will be located at the Erie County Veterans Memorial Park on Glenwood Park Avenue and State Street.
According to organizers, the effort coincides with the upcoming 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks and 25 years of U.S. military involvement in the Global War on Terrorism.
The memorial committee has set a goal of raising $300,000 by Memorial Day 2027 to bring the project to completion.
Organizers are seeking donations from individuals, businesses, and community sponsors. Several sponsorship levels are available, including opportunities for donors to have their names recognized on benches, plaques, and memorial features as part of the completed project.
The project is being overseen by the GWOT Memorial Committee, which includes local veterans, and the memorial’s design concept was developed by students from Mercyhurst University. Building Systems Incorporated of Erie is serving as the general contractor.
Those interested in supporting the memorial project can find additional information through the Erie County Veterans Memorial Park website or by contacting the committee via email at eriegwotmemorial@gmail.com.
Committee members say the memorial will serve as a lasting reminder of the service and sacrifice of Erie County veterans who answered the call in the years following 9/11.