For years, I have walked through our local cemetery, Earlham Cemetery, and noticed the growing neglect of the headstones and monuments. Many of these stones, some over a century old, have been left to fall over, tipped by mowing crews, or pushed aside by the roots of nearby trees. Moss and mold cover the inscriptions, making them unreadable, and broken stones lay scattered on the ground. It’s heartbreaking to see the final resting places of so many forgotten, with no one left to care for them.

One of the most heartbreaking areas of the cemetery is for our fallen soldiers, especially those from WWII. Their headstones are leaning, if not already fallen, and these brave individuals are not receiving the respect they deserve. This is a priority that needs immediate attention, and in 2026, I intend to correct the stones for our fallen soldiers and restore their dignity.

The grounds crew will sometimes right a stone if a family member complains, but for most of these graves, the families are long gone. I believe that everyone deserves to be remembered and honored, no matter how much time has passed. That’s why I am starting this fundraiser—to restore dignity to those who have been forgotten. With your support, I will purchase the materials, equipment, and supplies needed to clean, repair, and restore these headstones and monuments. Gravel, sand, concrete, a wench for lifting, and cleaning supplies will all help bring life back to these neglected stones. For those that are broken, I will use epoxy and bonding agents to make them whole again.

We often assume that the cemetery we choose to be laid to rest in will honor us for years after our families have come and gone. But that’s not always the case. My principle is simple: I don’t know many of these people, but they deserve better. My policy is, 'You are not forgotten. My actions will show others you are not going to be forgotten.' Please join me in this mission to honor and remember those who came before us—especially our fallen soldiers. Your support will make a lasting difference.