There’s a flag for each branch of the military, the state of Iowa and one to honor prisoners of war.

On the ground, a stone memorial is dedicated to all who served. A pair of benches give the visitor a space for rest and reflection.

On Sunday afternoon, a group of Manson Lions Club members gathered there to lay a wreath and offer a dedication.

Mark Essing, the club’s treasurer, spoke.

-Messenger photo by Hans Madsen
Manson Lions Club treasurer Mark Essing helps dedicate a veterans memorial in the park behind the Manson Public Library Sunday afternoon. The club used a $5,000 Calhoun County Foundation grant to help pay for the project.

“We gather here today to honor the brave men and women who have served our country with unwavering courage and selfless dedication,” Essing said. “This memorial stands as a testament to their sacrifices.”

Essing said the project got its start in early 2021 when former Manson Police Chief Gerry Frick organized a meeting to plan a memorial. In 2022, the Manson Lions Club began helping with the project. The group held various fundraisers, including a wild game feed, veterans dinner, and a gun raffle. In March 2024, the Calhoun County Community Foundation gave them a grant for $5,000.

“That helped us finish the memorial,” Essing said.

“To our veterans,” Essing concluded, “we offer our deepest gratitude.”

-Messenger photo by Hans Madsen
Members of the Manson Lions Club listen during the dedication of a veterans memorial in Manson located in the park behind the library Sunday afternoon.