Pike County Chapter 20 of the Disabled Veterans of America is spearheading a project that will memorialize Pike Countians who were casualties of American wars.

Rogers Powell, chapter commander, said the tribute is long overdue.

"It is time that we pay honor and tribute to the soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country," Powell said. "It is well and good that we recognize all of our veterans, but we should have a special place for those who gave their lives for their country. There is no greater sacrifice than that. We should never forget them and we should call them by name."

Powell said plans are to list the names of the casualties of war on a bronze plaque.

"The plaque will occupy a prominent place in a public building," he said. "The Pike County Courthouse is a place that has been suggested."

Powell said in an effort to include all Pike Countians who were casualties of war, the community must step forward.

"We are asking family members of those casualties of war to let us know who the soldiers were and when and where they lost their lives," he said. "Their names will be engraved on the plaque and a permanent reminder of their supreme sacrifice."

Names may be submitted to The Messenger at 566-4270 or to WTBF Radio at 566-0300.

There will be no charge for the listing. The DAV will assume the cost of the plaque and the engraving.

"We are inviting other service agencies to join us in this project," Powell said. "This is something that we feel should be done and it is something that we want to do. We think it is time."