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 memorial was formally dedicated during a ceremony on June 14, 2008.
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 the 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. Through World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and many of the other previous military operations and wars, Saint Mary's alumni and friends have served our great country. This memorial is a testament to the women and men who have served and sacrificed in defending our freedoms as a nation. More than 30 Saint Mary's alumni have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
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 Saint Mary's University 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:
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Dedication and statement of intention for the memorial;
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Honor roll of alumni veterans of the five branches of the military who died in service to the country;
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Citation of excellence for the Navy V-12 training program;
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History of The Barracks residence halls;
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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 Support is Appreciated
Please join the hundreds of alumni and friends who have already supported the Veterans Memorial project. Each gift of $250 is eligible for a custom, engraved paving brick that will be permanently placed at the Veterans Memorial walkway.
Make your gift online
The Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Veterans Memorial