In the News
Springfield Veterans Activities Committee raising funds for Global War on Terrorism memorial monument to be added to Veterans Way on Court Street
The Springfield Veterans Activities Committee, a non-profit group of Veterans dedicated to honoring the service to our country by all, but especially those from the City of Springfield, is working to raise funds to purchase a new monument to commemorate and honor members of the U.S. Armed Forces that served on active duty during the war in the Middle East known as the “Global War on Terrorism” (GWOT).
The Global War on Terrorism Veterans Monument will be added to Veterans Way on Court Street in downtown Springfield. Currently, Veterans Way features monuments for World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War and a monument honoring Marine veterans.

Mayor Sarno states, “I want to thank Cabinet Head Health & Human Services Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris, Veterans’ Services Director Joe DeCaro, Chair of the Veterans Activities Committee Bill Walls – who brought this initiative forth, and proud veterans Joe Hendrix and John Sagan for their continued efforts toward installing a new veteran’s monument along our Veterans Way to honor our veterans and active-duty service members that have served in support of the Global War on Terrorism – which in essence continues to be America’s longest conflict. We must always remember and never forget; America is still the greatest country in the world. Thanks to the sacrifices and dedication of our proud Veterans and their families, we are the beacon of democracy, strength, hope, and opportunity. It is only fitting that we look to expand our Veterans Way with this new monument. I am honored to support the Springfield Veterans Activities Committee’s efforts to raise funds for this monument and look forward to the Golf Tournament in June at our Veterans Golf Course, and seeing our Veterans Way down by Court Square reflect the respect and appreciation that our Springfield community has for those who sacrificed so much for our freedoms. God Bless the United States of America and God Bless our Veterans.”
Director of Springfield’s Department of Veterans’ Services Joe DeCaro states, “I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Mayor Sarno and Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris for their unwavering support of the veteran community. I commend the Springfield Veterans Activities Committee for their initiative toward erecting a new monument and honoring the veterans of our nation's longest conflict. I am confident our community will actively participate and contribute to this long-awaited vision.”
The Springfield Veterans Activities Committee (SVAC) will host a Golf Tournament fundraiser on June 7, 2025 at Springfield’s Veterans Golf Course located at 1059 South Branch Parkway. Please see the flyer for more information.
The SVAC is also accepting donations. Please see the flyer for information on how to donate by check or through PayPal.
Check out the Springfield Veterans Activities Committee Chairman Bill Walls and veterans Joe Hendrix and John Sagan with G. Michael Dobbs for an episode of "Government Matters."