May Their Sacrifice Never Be Forgotten

In September 2013 we will unveil a new Killed in Action monument that will honor those local heroes who gave their last full measure of devotion in the War on Terrorism, Iraq and Afghanistan, including Nick Newby and Nate Byers.

Anyone wishing to contribute to the monument can do so at the address on the left side rail of this page. No public funds have been or will be used in the maintenance of or for the addition of memorials and monuments in this plaza so thank you sincerely to all who have contributed through the years and in the future. ~ Kerri

Purple Heart Honor Roll

The Purple Heart Honor Roll is due for an update. It represents those military members from Kootenai County who were wounded in action in any war. On the left side rail of this site there are two links which list the names that currently appear on the Purple Heart Honor Roll. If you or someone you know has received a Purple Heart and are not on the current list, provide information to: Kerri Rankin Thoreson, 2508 Powderhorn Street, Post Falls, ID 83854 or rkthor52@aol.com  A ceremony to dedicate the updated PHHR will be scheduled at a later date at the Ronald D. Rankin Veterans Memorial Plaza.

A Man Amongst Men

My father was one of the lucky ones ... he returned from war to raise his family and make a life. Surviving the epic Battle of the Chosin Reservoir in Korea, he spent many years setting an example and doing his best to ensure that those who gave their last full measure of devotion on the battlefield were not forgotten. One has only to visit the plaza at the Kootenai County Courthouse and Adminstration Building to see tangible evidence of his legacy, and of the young men through the generations who hesitated not to take up arms for the United States of America.

Welcome!

Long overdue but finally here, this blog will serve as a place to exchange information regarding the memorials located at the Ronald D. Rankin Veterans Memorial Plaza. As adminstrator, in addition to being the appointed curator of the plaza named for my father, I'll strive to represent the Rankin family and the local veteran community with respect and honor.

I invite you to leave comments and questions below and we'll respond in a timely manner. Check the links on the left side rail below the heading "The Rest of the Story" to learn more about the plaza.

Semper Fi,

Kerri Rankin Thoreson ~ Curator