Let Freedom Ring

The war on terrorism has extracted a stunning personal toll on Elk Grove Village-four of our young residents have paid the ultimate price and given their lives in service to their country during the past year and a half.

To honor their sacrifice and to provide inspiration and support for those left behind, the Community Character Coalition, the Village of Elk Grove, the Elk Grove Park District, and other organizations and individuals are working to raise $100,000 to be divided among the following three projects:

1. BRONZE STATUE: With input from the families, a custom bronze sculpture entitled "Let Freedom Ring" was erected in the heart of the Elk Grove Village complex on Veterans Day, November 11, 2005, as a tribute to these four fallen heroes. To view the statue click here.

2. MILITARY FAMILY ASSISTANCE: A portion of the funds raised will provide financial assistance to families facing hardships at home due to the military deployment of a family member. A website has been created to inform families about resources available.

3. SCHOLARSHIPS: To honor the fallen soldiers, all graduates of Elk Grove High School, a special scholarship fund will be established in their names.

Elk Grove Village is a proud and patriotic community, and its residents have participated in numerous fund-raising activities. As of January 1, 2006, over $67,000 has been raised for this noble effort. Brooke Brottman, a little 8 year old girl raised $300.00 by selling lemonade. She did this by herself when she heard of the need to raise funds for the Veterans Statue and the Scholarhip and Aid fund. She was given an award by Police Chief Stephen Schmidt. To view the gallery of the award ceremony, the Veteran Memorial Fund Raiser, Silent Auction and Haloween party click here

We still have a need to raise another $33,000 to accomplish our goals. If you would care to make a contribution, you can issue a check payable to the Elk Grove Soldier Memorial Fund and drop it off at or send it to the Village of Elk Grove at 901 Wellington, Elk Grove Village IL 60007. Please mark the envelope "Elk Grove Soldier Memorial Fund." Any amount sent would be greatly appreciated.

The dedication of the statue, "Let Freedom Ring," took place on November 11, 2005. It was a beautiful sunny day, and there were over 300 people in attendance. Many dignitaries participated, and family members were present for this special dedication. To view the gallery of this event click here