Mar 18, 2006 By Jenny Susa 2 min read

The American Legion Post 51 has announced the reconstruction of a World War II monument to honor all of the war’s soldiers who were from Uniontown. Joe T. Joseph said that more than 2,800 names will appear on the monument, and for soldiers in all areas, they also plan to place 600 engraved bricks, flags and benches that the general public can purchase in honor of someone. Business owners also may purchase bricks with the name of the contributor on them, or they can be in honor of soldiers who served in any war.

The new monument will be located on the corner of Main and Court streets near the Fayette County Courthouse. Joseph said the World War II Monument Committee has finalized the plans for the project.

“We’re moving ahead very swiftly with everything, and in four to six months, the World War II monument will be completed,” said Joseph. “We still have flags and bricks available for loved ones, and we need people to help finish the finalization of the payment plan.”

Joseph said fund-raising for the project is about 80 percent complete and organizers are very thankful to the people who have already contributed.

“Any contributor who hasn’t donated yet, we’re asking them to get the donations in as soon as possible,” said Joseph.

Donations can be sent to the World War II Committee at P.O. Box 1069, Uniontown, Pa., 15401, or those interested in donating may call Joseph at 724-438-8688. Joseph said that any committee member may be contacted for further information. Other committee members include Emilio Settimi, Robert Chuey, Ross DiMarco, Asa McCormick, Charles Thomas, the Rev. Pete Malik and Wendell Patterson.

Joseph said the committee still needs about roughly $20,000 to complete the black granite monument, which will be surrounded by the bricks, flags, and benches.

“This monument will act as a final tribute to those who have served our great country,” Joseph said.