A Message from the Mayor

Veterans Memorial final details to be revealed soon

New art and walking trail to be celebrated on May 21.

With the help and support of local veterans, Parks Advisory Committee members, and Public Art Committee members, I am excited to share that the City will formally celebrate the completion of the Happy Valley Veterans Memorial on May 21. The community is welcome to attend the event and view the new art pieces that were made especially for the space.

Robert “Travis” Pond, a sculpture artist from Oregon City, has created a 10-foot eagle out of recycled steel from military surplus items and other local scrap metal sources. The pieces are recognizable as individual parts of tools and machinery but make up a larger-than-life image after they are welded together. The sculpture symbolizes the pride, bravery, and courage that soldiers need to serve our country. In addition, an ADA accessible pathway from SE 162nd Ave. has been built, which lets visitors access the Memorial and view each section more easily. A wall with engravings has also been added to the existing pieces.

None of this would have been possible without the generosity of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission. Three years ago, they gave the City $75,000 to begin the first phase of the Veterans Memorial. That first step brought our community a labyrinth to symbolize a “walk with veterans.” Around the labyrinth are benches and lighted flags for each branch of the military. Following the success of the first phase, Oregon Parks and Recreation stepped up once again to provide $58,000 for a permanent veteran themed sculpture, the pathway, and engraving wall.

As a veteran myself, I am filled with immense pride for the Veterans Memorial. It stands as a beacon of honor, and a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of our community’s veterans. It is a place where respect and remembrance are deeply rooted, and where future generations will come to learn and pay homage to the heroes who have served our nation.

Veterans Memorial Sculpture Dedication
Tuesday, May 21
4 p.m.-5 p.m.
Happy Valley Veterans Memorial Park
*located adjacent to City Hall