Without Abraham Lincoln, the National Cemetery system wouldn’t exist. Neither would our initiative to design, build and donate Patriot Plaza, the ceremonial amphitheater that will honor veterans, inspire patriotism and embrace freedom at Sarasota National Cemetery. It’s fitting that on … Continue reading
Since our journey with the National Cemetery Administration began about three years ago, we’ve been looking forward to the day we would break ground on the amphitheater at Sarasota National Cemetery — now officially called Patriot Plaza. This multi-million-dollar … Continue reading
Sandy Beckley is the initiative consultant for The Patterson Foundation’s partnership with the National Cemetery Administration to design, construct and donate an amphitheater to Sarasota National Cemetery. Through this first-ever government-philanthropy partnership, amphitheater will honor the service of all veterans, … Continue reading
Patriot – one who loves and zealously supports his own country (Webster’s New World Dictionary) The word patriot to me would include military members, civil servants (fireman, policeman, emergency medical personnel) and generally one who loves his or her country. … Continue reading
This weekend will be a three day weekend for most Americans because Congress has declared the last Monday of May as Memorial Day. So, what do we do with this day off? Memorial Day weekend is considered the unofficial beginning … Continue reading
The Patterson Foundation selected Sarasota National Cemetery as a place to honor the Patterson family legacy of military service. Dorothy and Jim Patterson retired to Sarasota in the late seventies, quietly impacting the community in many positive ways. The military … Continue reading
Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman, Morrill Worcester, in 1992. Their mission is to Remember, Honor and Teach by coordinating wreath … Continue reading
As we continue to progress with the design and construction of the assembly area at Sarasota National Cemetery, we are constantly reminded that there will be several potential uses for the space. This includes family gatherings following an interment service … Continue reading
A veteran (from Latin vetus, meaning “old”) is a person who has had long service or experience in a particular occupation or field. Today, we’re talking about military veterans — people who have served or are serving in the armed … Continue reading
While traveling through the Midwest section of our great nation, my mind kept noting all the FREEDOM. First, we exercised our freedom to choose the roads to travel, as we chose to drive through the country using secondary roads instead … Continue reading