The Veterans Memorial was formally dedicated during a ceremony on June 14, 2008.

WHAT IS THE VETERANS MEMORIAL?

The Veterans Memorial at the Saint Mary’s University Winona campus was conceived and proposed by the Alumni Association Board of Directors, with all funding raised for construction and maintenance through the donations of university benefactors.

The Veterans Memorial is a permanent recognition for alumni who have served and sacrificed in the U.S. military, especially those who have lost their lives. The memorial also stresses the relationship of peace through service to our country.

The inspiration for a memorial to Saint Mary’s alumni veterans comes from important historical facts. Records show that 1,440 Saint Mary’s alumni and students served in World War II. By the end of 1945, 32 Saint Mary’s students and alumni had given their lives in service to our country. Many more have served and sacrificed in the years since. The memorial was built in close proximity to where the two Barracks once stood on the Winona campus. Assembled in 1946, the military-surplus housing accommodated the surge of students and veterans attending college after the war.

THE DESIGN

The inviting and spacious design by Preston Lawing, chairman of the SMU Art Department, features semi-circular seating and attractive landscaping. At the memorial's center, a large glass monument, etched with an olive branch, bears the words "Peace Through Service." At night, the glass glows with soft interior lighting which projects up from the base.

Five pedestals hold these plaques:

• dedication and statement of intention for the memorial;
• honor roll of alumni veterans of the 5 branches of the military who died in service to the country;
• citation of excellence for the Navy V-12 training program;
• history of The Barracks residence halls;
• quote citing Catholic doctrine regarding military service:

"Those who are sworn to serve their country in the armed forces are servants of the security and freedom of nations. If they carry out their duty honorably, they truly contribute to the common good of the nation and the maintenance of peace." (Catechism of the Catholic Church 2310.)

YOUR HELP IS APPRECIATED!

More than 200 alumni and friends have donated to the Veterans Memorial project. The Alumni Board thanks all those who have already participated! Each gift of $250 is eligible for an engraved paving brick, which can honor or memorialize a veteran’s gift of service. The bricks are placed along the walkway leading to the memorial, providing an opportunity for reflection and remembrance.

Information on ordering bricks

Photos of the Veterans Memorial

Veterans Memorial Dedication slideshow