BROKEN BOW, Neb.— Three patriotic benches now have a permanent home near the Custer County courthouse after a dedication ceremony Thursday morning honoring the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans and the nation’s founding patriots.
The General George A. Custer Chapter #5015 of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) formally dedicated the red, white and blue benches during a ceremony attended by chapter members, county officials, veterans and community supporters. The benches are being installed near the courthouse entrance, with one expected to end up near the flagpole and two others flanking the front steps.
View close up pictures of the benches at the end of this story
The project, which had been years in the making, originated with an idea from longtime DAR member Sherrie Olson.
Those who spoke at the ceremony said the lasting tribute Olson envisioned decades ago became reality through memorial donations, grants from the Nebraska DAR, community contributions, and fundraising efforts including proceeds from the chapter’s DAR flower stand.
“This project has been a long time in thinking and developing, and now we can present this project to our community and Custer County, Nebraska. We are glad and honored to honor our veterans of all the years.”
Organizers also thanked the many businesses, volunteers and supporters who helped bring the project to completion, including V-Bar Welding for assisting with the bench construction, Custer County officials for allowing the benches to be placed on courthouse grounds, and everyone who supported the chapter’s flower stand fundraiser.
The ceremony had added significance as communities across the country prepare to commemorate America’s semi quincentennial.
Messages shared from the podium reflected on both the country’s founding and the sacrifices made by generations of service members.
“Today we’re gathered to dedicate these benches in remembrance of the men and women who achieved American independence. They lived, they sacrificed, and they will never be forgotten,” one speaker said.
“Let these benches serve as a reminder of our sacred duty to never forget those who served and sacrificed on behalf of America,” another speaker said.
The ceremony concluded with a prayer and an invitation to the Custer County Museum for patriotic refreshments.
