TEARS OF SORROW - TEARS OF JOY
This is a memorial that strives to honor those who have served our country in all branches of the military, from the past, the present and into the future. It also honors the families who have sacrificed with their servicemen and women. It represents the very reason they put the uniform on with great pride and dignity. They preserve the freedom we have enjoyed in the past and present, and continue to pass it on to future generations.
The woman cradles the folded flag to her chest with the field of stars toward the heavens. Her head is bowed in honor of the fallen soldier who has made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Through the sorrow, her strength and pride are evident in her posture as she continues to move forward. The soldier is kneeling on one knee with pride and joy evident in his expression as he passes the United States flag to the young boy. The boy is reaching for the flag as he is fully supported by the strength of the soldiers arm around him. The boy shows complete confidence and pride in his reliance in the soldier as he embraces him with his head on the soldiers shoulder and his arm wrapped around the soldiers back This represents the hard fought Freedom we are blessed with as it is passed from one generation to the next.
Engraved in the wall as you approach the woman are the words "ON BEHALF OF A GRATEFUL NATION" and as you approach the soldier and boy the wall will list the five branches of the service AIR FORCE, ARMY, COAST GUARD, MARINE CORPS and NAVY. This creates an inviting atmosphere to interact, find solace and peace in what this memorial represents. The water around the columns moves in an infinite loop, which signifies there is no end to this cause and tribute.
With honor and respect for those who served - Stephen C. Spears, sculptor, and Sarah "Sissy" Scott, concept originator. Joseph "Joe" Birindelli, Chairman.
How the Fairhope Veterans Memorial Began
Since World War II, residents of Fairhope have come forward at various times in hopes of establishing a veterans memorial. However, these aspirations never came to fruition. Then came Sept. 11, 2001.
America’s War on Terror affected every sector of our country, and Fairhope was no exception. In mid-March 2003, the Alabama National Guard 1165th Military Police Co., based at Fort Riel in the heart of town, was activated. Residents rallied ‘round these citizen soldiers that began with a rousing send-off.
During their 14-month tour in Iraq, young and old alike shipped cards, letters and packages filled with all manner of goods were shipped to these men and women. Some was sent individually, but a lot of it was handled through an organization that came together to support both the troops and their families: The Citizens for Local Troop Support Committee. This group also raised funds to help with shipping costs of the packages as well as providing financial assistance for troop family members in need.
About half way through the 1165th overseas tour, several members of the company riding in a Humvee on the way to their duty station when a rocket-propelled grenade exploded near the vehicle, killing Spc. Christopher Taylor, 25, and injuring Pfc. Allen Brandon Powell, also 25.
At a subsequent Troop Support Meeting, it was suggested the group present a plaque honoring Spc. Taylor for display at the armory. Another committee member said that just wasn’t enough, the town needed a visible memorial to honor Taylor and all its veterans. The committee decided that after the 1165th returned home and the committee concluded its support activities, members so interested could then pursue that idea.
On Aug. 5, 2004, the Fairhope Veterans Memorial Committee was organized. The group is a 501(c)3 organization, comprised of veterans, non-veterans and representatives from local veterans service organizations and city government.
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After many years of efforts from numerous volunteers, donors, and the City of Fairhope, the Fairhope Veterans Memorial is complete. The dedication took place May 30th, 2013 and now the sculpture "Tears of Sorrow - Tears of Joy" is open to the public on the bluff overlooking the Fairhope Pier.