FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 22, 2000
Contact: Channell Barbour (502) 564-2611

Governor Patton Presents Check for National World War II Memorial

Frankfort, K.Y.---- Governor Patton, today, presented a check in the amount of $312,000 for the construction of the World War II Memorial being built in Washington, D.C. to the National World War II committee, in the Capitol Rotunda.

“As we enter the 21^st century, this monument will serve as a reminder of the duty and sacrifices of all who served our great nation and Commonwealth,” said Governor Patton.

In 1993 President Clinton authorized the American Battle Monuments Commission to establish a World War II Memorial.  This is the first national memorial dedicated to World War II veterans.   The memorial will honor the 16 million who served in the armed forces of the United States during World War II.  It will stand as an important symbol of American national unity.

The $100-million project is funded by private contributions and will be constructed in the prime area of the national capital, which includes the National Mall.

In a joint resolution during the 2000 General Assembly, the check amount presented today represents an amount equal to $1.00 for each resident of the Commonwealth of Kentucky who served in the Armed Forces. 

The American Battle Monuments Commission is an independent, executive branch agency responsible for administering, operating, and maintaining 24 permanent United States military cemeteries and 27 memorial structures in 15 countries around the world, including five memorials in the United States. 

Construction is scheduled to begin Veterans Day 2000.

“This is our tribute to all citizens who suffered, endured, and helped America persevere during World War II,” said Governor Patton.

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