The US House recently voted to approve federal funds for the Orion Veterans Memorial, a work-in-progress at the corner of Odanah and M-24.
The funds were requested by Congressman Joe Knollenberg, and included in the Transportation, Treasury and HUD Appropriations Act of 2007.
The legislation provides $190,000 for the ‘Family Separation Monument,? the main monument within the memorial. The funding will cover the cost of five life-size bronze statues.
The Orion Veterans Memorial has raised over $690,000 in private contributions, and relies on volunteers for administrative and maintenance work.
Chairman Dr. Joe Mastromatteo contacted Knollenberg earlier this year to request help in securing funding.
‘We here in Oakland County cannot thank him and his staff enough for their efforts to help us in this noble cause,? Mastromatteo said.
Knollenberg said the memorial is an important cause.
‘This new memorial will give all of us an opportunity to remember their service and express our gratitude,? he said.