If you’re cruising around Bonney Lake, Washington, and suddenly find yourself on Veterans Memorial Drive, you might wonder, “Hey, wasn’t this road called something else before?” Well, you’re not losing your marbles. This street, formerly known as Sumner-Buckley Highway, got a patriotic makeover on May 25, 2023. But that’s not all – this name change is just one part of a bigger story about honoring our veterans in this charming city near Lake Tapps, Washington.
The Memorial That Packs a Punch
Now, you might be thinking, “Great, another memorial. Probably just a plaque slapped on a rock, right?” Wrong! The Bonney Lake Veterans Memorial is anything but ordinary. It’s not exactly in Lake Tapps, but it’s so close you could practically throw a stone and hit the water (don’t actually do that, though).
This memorial isn’t just a statue or a wall of names. It’s a whole experience that’ll make you feel proud, thankful, and maybe a little bit in awe of our veterans’ sacrifices. It’s like a history lesson, an art gallery, and a moment of reflection all rolled into one.
Location, Location, Location
You’ll find this tribute to our heroes right in the heart of Bonney Lake. It’s not hiding in some out-of-the-way park or tucked behind a building. Nope, it’s front and center, making sure everyone who passes by takes a moment to remember those who served.
The memorial sits proudly along Veterans Memorial Drive (see, the name change makes sense now, doesn’t it?). It’s like the city planners said, “Let’s put this where everyone can see it, not just when they’re actively looking for it.”
More Than Just a Name
Speaking of that road name change, it’s not just a new sign, and call it a day. The whole stretch of road from 192nd Avenue East to State Route 410 got the veterans’ treatment. It’s like the city rolled out a red, white, and blue carpet for our vets.
But wait, there’s more! The city didn’t stop at renaming one road. They went all out and created multiple “memorial roads” throughout Bonney Lake. It’s like a scavenger hunt of patriotism, each road telling a different story of service and sacrifice.
A Community Effort
You might wonder, “Who’s behind all this veteran-honoring goodness?” Well, it wasn’t just one person or group. The whole community of Bonney Lake came together to make this happen. It’s like when everyone chips in for a potluck, but instead of casseroles, they brought ideas, time, and a whole lot of respect for veterans.
The Greater Bonney Lake Historical Society played a big part in this. These folks aren’t just about dusty old books and faded photographs. They’re keeping history alive and kicking, ensuring local veterans’ stories aren’t forgotten.
More Than Just a Pretty Face
The Bonney Lake Veterans Memorial isn’t just nice to look at (although it is that, too). It’s packed with information that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a really cool outdoor history class.
You’ll find details about different conflicts from back when to more recently. It’s like a timeline of American military history, but it’s way more interesting than what you dozed through in high school.
A Year-Round Attraction
Some memorials only attract visitors on holidays like Memorial Day or Veterans Day. But Bonney Lake’s tribute is a year-round destination. Whether it’s the height of summer or the dead of winter, people stop by to pay their respects, learn something new, or just take a quiet moment of reflection.
The memorial is a great spot for a patriotic picnic in the summer. In the fall, the changing leaves provide a beautiful backdrop. Winter brings a solemn beauty, and spring… well, just say allergies aren’t the only thing that’ll bring a tear to your eye.
Not Just for Veterans
While the memorial is a big deal for veterans and their families, it’s not exclusive. Everyone’s welcome to visit, learn, and reflect. It’s like a community living room where everyone can come together and appreciate the sacrifices made for our freedom.
Kids can learn about history in a way that’s way more engaging than a textbook. Adults can gain a deeper appreciation for the cost of freedom. And everyone can take a moment to say “thanks” in their own way.
More Than Just a Memorial
The Bonney Lake Veterans Memorial isn’t just a standalone attraction. It’s part of a larger effort to make Bonney Lake a place that honors its veterans. From the renamed roads to community events, the city is going all out to show its appreciation.
The whole city got together and asked, “How can we make sure our veterans feel appreciated daily?” And then they actually went and did it.
So, next time you’re in the Bonney Lake area, take a detour to Veterans Memorial Drive. Stop by the memorial, take a moment to reflect, and maybe learn something new. It’s more than just a monument—it’s a testament to a community’s gratitude and a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedom.
Source: bonaventuresenior.com
Header Image Source: Photo by Ryan Stone on Unsplash
