A new monument recognizing Fayette County inductees in the Kentucky Veterans Hall of Fame was dedicated in Veterans Park today.
“I am so proud of the men and women who have committed their lives to serving in our military, then after their service, focused their time on helping the people of Fayette County,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “This new monument showcases those in Fayette County who have done great things for our country and our community.”
Since it was founded in 2010, there have been 23 Fayette County residents inducted into the Kentucky Veterans Hall of Fame.
“The Kentucky Veterans Hall of Fame is an outstanding organization that recognizes men and women of the Commonwealth who continue to contribute to their communities post military service,” said Brigadier General Ben Adams, a Fayette County Kentucky Veterans Hall of Fame inductee and board member.
The Kentucky Veterans Hall of Fame was established by Vietnam Veteran H.B. Deatherage. “It’s an honor and a privilege to work with the veterans of Fayette County, and a continuing honor to be able to recognize all veterans in the state of Kentucky,” Deatherage said.
Nearly 250 individuals have been inducted into the Kentucky Veterans Hall of Fame. “The men and women who once served on the front lines to preserve democracy are now being honored for continuing to serve the betterment of the communities in which they live,” said Reverand Dr. Jim Thurman, Fayette County resident, Hall of Fame inductee, and board member. “I am proud and honored to be a part of this group.”
Several Kentucky communities have erected monuments to recognize local members of the Hall of Fame.
Fayette County Inductees are:
Benjamin Adams III
Thomas Baker
Paschal Baute
Troy Bowling
Judith April Brown
Julia Cantrell-Martin
David Carter
Douglas Carter, Sr.
Cortez Day
Don Dixon
Helen Evans
William Gay
Roy Hall
Dean Hammond, Jr.
Micki King
Kathryn Lee Bux
Ronald Logan
David Morgan
Leonard Neal
John Shotwell
James Thurman, Jr.
John Thurston
Franketta Zalaznik
The monument is located in Veterans Park, 650 Southpoint Drive, near other veteran-focused monuments and memorials, including the Gold Star Families Memorial, Korean War Memorial, the Blue Star Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial, a decommissioned U.S. Army tank, the “Never Forget” garden, and more.
“Today we dedicate this monument to all who are part of the Kentucky Veterans Hall of Fame and their outstanding accomplishments,” said Brenda Monarrez, 4th District Councilmember. “This monument will serve as a reminder of the service, sacrifice, and bravery of our veterans who are the heart of our community. May it stand to carry on their legacy and inspire all who visit beautiful Veterans Park.”
Lexington has served as host of Kentucky Veterans Hall of Fame ceremonies and events since 2018. To learn more about the organization, visit kyveterans.org.
