Now that Dan Dingmann has been fortunate in accessing another suitable location for his funeral home, I wonder if the city of Luverne might consider Fledgling Field as an almost perfect site for a war memorial? Sadly, for a town of 4,800, it is embarrassing not to have one. Many area towns have such — many are smaller towns. Veterans have served and sacrificed — would we have our current freedoms without veterans? There are few World War I vets around; not many World War II either, and we have Korean, Vietnam, Persian Gulf and now, Iraqi veterans to honor. Johnnie went through the infamous Battle of Leyte Gulf — still considered the world’s greatest sea battle. He was one of many wounded at Okinawa by the first Kamikaze attack on the U.S.S. Sangamon, his aircraft carrier. (Kamikaze: Japanese suicide plane attack). It is painful for him to read his monthly newsletter, "The Sangy News," and relive those years.We should be grateful enough to all veterans to help in this endeavor. There would be ample space for a lovely park! It would be an effective way to teach history! Surely people would donate, large or small contributions, even in our present economy. We need a brave, willing person or organization to step forth to spearhead such a project. A design contest could be conducted, open to anyone. It would be a fitting way to say, "Thanks, Veterans!"Rose Tofteland JohnsonLuverne
