The Village of Montgomery proudly held a heartwarming dedication ceremony on Monday, July 8, at Montgomery Park, unveiling two monuments honoring the service and sacrifices of Veterans, First Responders, and Essential Workers. The event was attended by local leaders, dignitaries, first responders, essential workers, and community members, all coming together to pay tribute to those who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting others.
The ceremony took place at 5:00P, and Village President Matt Brolley welcomed the crowd of over two hundred. The Kane County Chiefs of Police Association Honor Guard presented the colors as Chief of Police Phil Smith led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the National Anthem sung proudly by resident and US Army Veteran Denny Wiggins. Following a moving invocation by Montgomery Police Department Chaplain Jordan Gash, the Executive Director of the Fox Valley Park District, Jennifer Paprocki, addressed the crowd, speaking to the partnership and collaboration of the Montgomery Park project between the park district and the Village.
The monuments are beautifully crafted symbols of gratitude and respect and were unveiled amidst applause, heartfelt cheers, and a few “hoorahs” from Veterans. The first monument dedicated was the Veterans Memorial, standing tall and proud against the Fox River, proudly displaying the emblems of the six military branches. World War II Veteran Dick Miller led the crowd in singing God Bless America while members of the Montgomery Memorial Post 7452 Veterans of Foreign Wars raised the flags and revealed the monument. First to address the crowd at the Veterans Monument was Illinois State Representative Stephanie Kifowit of the 84th District. Kifowit, a Veteran herself, was instrumental in championing the monuments at the state level to raise essential funding for the project. Following Kifowit, the Director of the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs, Terry Prince, shared a heartfelt address, emphasizing the importance of Veterans and keeping their memory alive.
Village President Brolley welcomed the crowd to turn their attention to the second monument, surrounded by the faces of Montgomery Police Officers, members of the Montgomery Public Works Department, local teachers, hospital officials, and men and women of several local fire protection districts, representing the First Responders & Essential Workers who inspired the monument. As staff unveiled the next monument, Brolley read the quote inscribed on the monument from John F. Kennedy reading: “What really counts is not the immediate act of courage or valor, but those who bear the struggle day in and day out – not the sunshine patriots but those who are willing to stand for a long period of time.”
Lt. Kris Kearns of the Oswego Fire Protection District, one of many stakeholders to assist the Village through focus groups and interviews that assisted in designing the monuments, addressed the crowd, sharing stories and moments to demonstrate the bravery, dedication, and selflessness of first responders and essential workers who make an impact on the lives of others each day. Following Lt. Kearns, Village President Brolley took a moment to thank first responders and essential workers who inspired the monument with their “selfless acts of service to our community and others,” further stating, “each of us owes you a debt of gratitude and thanks for the selfless commitment.”
As Brolley gave his final remarks, local community members passed out yellow carnations to the crowd. The Fox Valley Marine Detachment performed a Gun Volley Salute and played Taps by American Legion Band Member and retired Police Officer Mike Gilloffo. In a final crescendo of the event, the Kane County Chiefs of Police Association Bagpiper played Amazing Grace as the Honor Guard processed out of the park, and attendees laid yellow carnations at the bases of each monument.
“These monuments stand as a lasting tribute to those who give our country and community their unwavering commitment and sacrifice,” said Village President Brolley. The Village of Montgomery would like to extend its deepest gratitude to the following elected officials for their presence and support:
- IL House of Representatives District 84 - State Representative Stephanie Kifowit
- IL House of Representatives District 83- State Representative Matt Hanson
- IL Senate District 42 – Senator Linda Holmes
- Director of the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs, Terry Prince
- Village of Montgomery Trustees Matt Bauman, Ben Brzoska, Dan Gier, Steve Jungermann, Doug Marecek, and Theresa Sperling
- Village Clerk Debbie Buchanan
Their attendance underscored the importance of this occasion and demonstrated a united forum in honoring the heroes among us. Special thanks are also due to the Fox Valley Park District, Fox Valley Marine Detachment #1233, Kane County Chiefs of Police Association, Montgomery Police Department, Montgomery-Countryside Fire Protection District, Oswego Fire Protection District, Sugar Grove Fire Protection District, Montgomery Memorial Post 7452 Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Roosevelt Aurora American Legion Post 84, and many individuals for their assistance in organizing this significant event. Their dedication ensured a meaningful and memorable ceremony for all attendees.
The monuments, located along the west banks of the Fox River in Montgomery Park, serve as a reminder of the community's strength and resilience. They stand as a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring spirit of those who have given so much for the greater good and have always put service to others before themselves.
For more information about the monuments and the dedication, please contact the Village of Montgomery at 331-212-9010 or visit the website at montgomeryil.org. For media inquiries or additional media-approved photos, email communications@montgomeryil.org.