Hartland breaks ground on Aug. 19 for veterans’ memorial with Huey helicopter

HARTLAND – The American Legion in Gasport is seeking to construct a veterans’ memorial in Hartland. Ground-breaking for the project will be 3 p.m. on Aug. 19 at the Hartland Fire Hall, 8945 Ridge Rd.

The Legion has raised about $40,000 so far and need another $40,000 to $50,000 to complete the memorial, said Scott Wymyczak, commander of the Legion.

Hartland last year received a decommissioned Vietnam-era Bell UH-1 “Huey” helicopter through the Army Donations Program.

“The intention for the helicopter is to make a lasting tribute to recognize veterans not just from the Vietnam War but from all conflicts and times,”  Wymyczak  said. “The Hartland Volunteer Fire Company has graciously offered a plot of land for this memorial to be placed.”

The display for the helicopter will include a four-sided memorial which includes the names of those soldiers in the Towns of Royalton and Hartland who made the ultimate sacrifice for the United States along with other forms of recognition.

An Advisory Committee of veterans from the Gasport American Legion Post 1253 is spearheading the effort to ensure that a display befitting the service, contributions and sacrifice of American soldiers, Wymyczak  said.

The anticipated dedication date is Memorial Day in 2025. Input and support from veterans and other community members is welcome, he said.

A tribute brick is available to all veterans, living or decreased, who have served honorably or are currently serving in any branch of the military at any time. The bricks will be displays in a Tribute Wall to be erected around the memorial with the helicopter.

Donations of money or materials are welcome. Checks may be mailed to the Gasport American Legion Post 1253 c/o Clifford Grant at 3251 Hosmer Road, Gasport, NY 14067. For more information, contact Commander Scott Wymyczak at (716) 417-5151 or Clifford Grant at (716) 213-3446.