by Bobby Panza, June 1
On Memorial Day this year, the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument brought veterans and civilians together to honor those who’ve died serving this country. During the event, City Council Member Gale Brewer discussed the historic significance of the 120-year-old monument and the hardships it’s currently facing — needing $50 to $52 million in repairs — while calling on the community to come together to sign a petition advocating for the funding of its restoration.
“I’ve spoken here about the history of the monument, how it recalls and evokes New York’s role in the defense of the nation,” said Brewer at the event. “Foremost, it speaks of the role of the city’s regiments in the Civil War, and why we are obligated to remember them. In this respect, the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument unites national and personal memory for many of us, and why, for more than a hundred years, West Siders have gathered here on Memorial Day to declare our reverence for all who served and fell.”
