In the heart of Bonney Lake, Washington, a group of dedicated citizens has taken on a noble task: creating a lasting tribute to the brave men and women who have served our nation. The Greater Bonney Lake Veterans Memorial Committee, or GBLVMC for those who love a good acronym, is not your average group of retirees looking for a hobby. No, these folks mean business when it comes to honoring veterans.
The Birth of an Idea
It all started with the Bonney Lake Park Board, who had a wild idea that maybe, just maybe, the city should have a memorial for veterans. Shocking, right? But instead of just talking about it over coffee and donuts, they decided to actually do something. Thus, the GBLVMC was born like a phoenix rising from the ashes of bureaucratic meetings and endless discussions.
The Committee’s Grand Plan
You might be thinking, “What’s so special about this committee?” Well, let me tell you, they’re not just sitting around twiddling their thumbs. These folks have a vision, and it’s not just any vision – it’s a vision of a memorial that will make other memorials green with envy.
The planned location for this soon-to-be masterpiece? None other than the corner of Main Street and WA 410, right across from the Bonney Lake Municipal Justice Center. It’s a spot so visible you’d have to be actively trying not to see it. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good landmark next to a credit union?
The Road to Recognition
But wait, there’s more! The GBLVMC isn’t content with just a memorial. Oh no, they’ve got bigger fish to fry. Thanks to their efforts and the support of local officials, Bonney Lake now boasts a road named after veterans. That’s right, folks, say goodbye to the Sumner-Buckley Highway and hello to Veterans Memorial Drive East!
However, this name change didn’t come without its fair share of drama. Some longtime residents weren’t too thrilled about losing a piece of their heritage. And let’s not forget the poor business owners who suddenly realized they’d have to update all their stationery. But fear not, for the city came up with a compromise to make Solomon proud: they kept a “Historic Sumner-Buckley Highway” sign. Problem solved, right?
The Committee’s Modus Operandi
Now, you might be wondering how this illustrious committee operates. Well, hold onto your hats because it’s about to get wild. They meet on the first Thursday of each month at 5:30 PM. The location? To be determined. That’s right, their regular meeting spot has closed, leaving them in a state of locational limbo. But don’t let that fool you – these folks are adaptable. They’re like the Navy SEALs of veteran memorial committees.
Join the Ranks
You’re in luck if you feel inspired by the GBLVMC’s dedication and want to get in on the action. They’re always looking for recruits to join their ranks. All you need is a passion for honoring veterans and a high tolerance for committee meetings. Who knows, you might even get to help decide where the next meeting will be held. Talk about excitement!
The Grand Unveiling
On May 25, 2024, the city of Bonney Lake pulled out all the stops for the big reveal of Veterans Memorial Drive East. Picture this: city council members, the mayor, and even some American Legion folks all gathered at the corner of Main Street and the newly christened Veterans Memorial Drive. It was like the Oscars but with more patriotism and fewer designer gowns.
The ceremony was a sight to behold. They unveiled a special sign, not to be confused with the actual road signs, which will find its forever home with the GBLVMC. They got custody of the sign in the divorce between the old and new road names.
And because no good deed goes unpunished, they even threw in some refreshments after the ceremony. But in true Pacific Northwest fashion, they had a rain contingency plan. Nothing says “we honor our veterans” like soggy cookies in the Public Safety Building.
The Road Ahead
As the GBLVMC continues its mission, one thing is clear: Bonney Lake is serious about honoring its veterans. This little city is making big waves in veteran recognition, from road name changes to memorial plans.
So, stroll down Veterans Memorial Drive East the next time you find yourself in Bonney Lake. And if you happen to see a group of determined individuals huddled in a coffee shop, frantically searching for their next meeting location, give them a salute. After all, they’re the Greater Bonney Lake Veterans Memorial Committee and on a mission to ensure our veterans are never forgotten.
Sources: gblvmc.weebly.com, Greater Bonney Lake Veterans Memorial Committee Facebook Page
Header Image Source: Photo by Lucas Alexander on Unsplash
