What a wonderful turnout (in the 200 range) we had on September 11 to dedicate this new Memorial, which was built on Aquia Drive, near the bridge at Schnopp Park. It was good to see so many neighbors turn out to honor those we lost on September 11, 2001. Martha Reszke and Marian Serva were both Harbour residents working at the Pentagon who we lost on that sad day a year ago. Family members of Martha Reszke were able to join us for the Ceremony. This Memorial, which also honors others who have lost their lives in service to our Country, includes a stone wall enclosing a flag pole, a large stone, originally from the Government Island Quarry (with a dedication plaque attached to it), and areas which were landscaped by Jane Gill and Beth Barg. The large stone, with the plaque on it, was generously donated by Aquia Harbour resident, Mr. Alfred Sides. Within the Memorial is a statue donated by the Reszke Family. There will be a light, which will shine on the Flag, perpetually. Just outside the Memorial, which has a path that leads to the Memorial from the parking lot at Schnopp Park, is a bench, donated by Bonnie Campbell, and several planters with lovely red, white and blue flowers. Thank you to the Reszke Family, Mr. Sides and Ms. Campbell for their generous donations.
Thanks so much to the Board Members, Jane Gill, Bob Hunt, Bob Lester, Dave Richardson and Joe Spelman, who were in attendance. Thanks also to Kandy Hilliard, Member of the Stafford Board of Supervisors, and Charlie Robinson, from the Stafford County Fire Department for being with us. Thank you, to The Rev. Cuthbert Mandell and the Rev. Alexander MacPhail from Aquia Episcopal Church for participating in the dedication of this Memorial. Thanks to the American Legion and
Seig Gates for being part of this important event, and for providing the 21 Gun Salute.
Musical accompaniment by Mr. Kirby McClain, who played the trumpet to accompany several songs, and Miss Ashleigh Bell, who played the Alto Sax accompaniment to “God Bless America,” was beautiful! Stafford Country Sheriff’s Department Representatives, 1st Sgt. G. W. Lloyd and
Deputy S. T. Myers were exemplary in presenting the colors. Thanks also to Ben Blankenship, for the original idea of establishing this Memorial, and for leading the singing during the Ceremony. Thanks must also go to the AHPOA Office Staff and the Roads and Grounds Crew, for their help with setting up the Ceremony and for constructing the Memorial. Thank you to all the people who brought flowers to the Memorial, which included many thoughtful notes.
On Saturday, October 19, the AHPOA will hold an election for 3 Board of Directors vacancies. Board members serve a 3-year term. Although there are currently 3 candidates running for these positions, it is crucial that residents of Aquia Harbour vote. We need a quorum to hold this election, or we will need to spend the money to conduct the election again. You can come to the general membership meeting to vote on Saturday, October 19, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon (the time balloting ends) at the Harbour Inn. Or you can vote by proxy. Either way is great, but please vote! This is your Harbour, and we need to hear your voice, in the form of a vote.