As the physical site comes to life, the Tribute to Veterans Memorial is becoming more of a reality.The committee for the monument being built next to Denny’s on the South Service Road in Warrenton was busy counting its donations the past few days.Excitement is building following a benefit dinner auction held at Decades of Love Banquet Center this past Saturday night.The fundraiser pulled in $16,500 for the project, which is now just $34,000 away from its total monetary goal to complete the project.“We couldn’t have asked for a better event,” said committee member Kathy Daly. “The community came together full force.”The committee had hoped to draw 300 people to the event, but with the space occupied by silent auction items, the evening sold out with 272 in attendance. Daly says the fundraiser drew supporters from as far as Owensville and St. Louis.“This was a very positive event for the memorial and for veterans,” said Daly. “If you looked around the room you could see how many veterans were in attendance. That was just an honor to have them there that night.”The evening began with a social hour, followed by a presentation of the colors. Wendell Webb then honored the Missing In Action and Prisoners of War with a time of remembrance.After dinner was served, the silent auctions closed and the oral auction began with 21 listed items.The top single donation of $1,000 and top-selling item came from the same bidder, McAmis Race Cars. The big seller of the night was a World War II 48-star flag donated by Jim Ledbetter that sold for $800.“Once the community saw the dirt being moved they realized it’s going to be a reality, and it wasn’t just a dream,” said Daly. “As we get each step a little closer we’re seeing more involvement from the community because everybody wants to be involved now.”Daly says there are still plenty of opportunities to help the committee complete their fundraising needs. Those interested in being a part of the project can have their name or company moniker placed on a paver that will be incorporated into the project.The cost for a paver is $150, and the deadline is March 1.There also is a quilt raffle underway until March 19.The committee has one more bench, dedicated to the Coast Guard, that needs funding.For those interested in contributing or learning more about the project, contact Bill Savant at 636-297-0480.

Patrons at the trivia night event in support of the Tribute to Veterans Memorial look at the items on display and open for bidding for the auction. 

Record photo/Derrick Forsythe

Ralph Hellebusch of the Warren County Ambulance District, right, hands over a stream of raffle tickets to Warrenton Mayor Eric Schleuter, middle left. Raffle proceeds benefitted the Tribute to Veterans Memorial. The fundraising event was held Jan. 20. 

Record photo/Derrick Forsythe