BRISTOL BOROUGH MEMORIAL COMMITTEE
P. O. BOX 241
BRISTOL, PA 19007
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where will the monument be located?
The monument will be erected at the current site of what is now known as the Harriman World War II Monument at Pond Street and Farragut Avenue.
Why was this location selected?
The committee investigated a number of other sites. However, it was deemed the most viable location in that as Bristol continues to regain its reputation as a thriving community, more and more visitors are coming to Bristol for historic tours and to enjoy the river and the ethnic days that Bristol provides. It was felt that another monument on the river might be overkill, and secondly by placing the monument where the American Legion has historically honored our veterans during flag day and memorial day celebrations was a necessity. Currently the Legion visits Harriman, St Mark Cemetery on Radcliff Street, St James Cemetery on Walnut Street and the Bristol Cemetery on Route 13. Adding an additional site would not be productive.
Will the current monument be removed/replaced?
No. Rather, we intend to incorporate the current monument with the new monument. However, it may be relocated at the same site to allow us to stay within the constraints of borough setbacks etc.
Who is eligible to be included on the monument?
All men and women from World War II on who currently or formerly lived in Bristol Borough, and entered the service while living in Bristol Borough and received an honorable discharge.
Does the veteran have to have served during wartime?
No. This monument seeks to recognize all men and women who proudly served our country by wearing the uniform of the United States.
Why start at World War II?
Our investigation found that there is a World War I monument currently located at the Bristol Post Office on Beaver and Prospect Streets.
How do I submit a name?
There is a form on our web site (Bristol Borough.com) that requests the name of the veteran, with pertinent data regarding years of service, branch of service etc. along with a copy of the veteran’s DD214 (separation papers). You can also write to us at Bristol Borough Veterans Memorial Fund P. O. Box 241, Bristol, PA 19007 to request forms.
Is there a charge for each name recognized?
We are hoping to receive sufficient support through donations, fund raisers, and grants to pay for the names. However, there remains a possibility that a fee may have to be charged.
How about citizens current or former who entered the service while living elsewhere?
We have established a “Walk of Honor”, which is to be an engraved brick to include the names etc. of those veterans that enlisted or were drafted while living outside the borough of Bristol. This “Walk of Honor” will also include the names of any members of the community that gave support from home by working in the factories, raised families, or gave moral support to family members and friends that were serving. We currently estimate that we will have space for 2000 bricks, and the cost of each brick is currently $100.
How about future veterans, are they included?
Yes. We will recognize all past, present and future veterans. Persons still on active duty or for that matter may not even have been born as yet, are to be included through a yearly program of adding names. At this point in time we expect to list all the names of our veterans on the front sides of the granite blocks that are to be erected. As this space fills, we will on a yearly basis, add any additional names to the back side of the monument.
How much money has to be raised?
Initially it was believed we could erect a monument for less than $250,000 dollars. After much discussion, we came to the conclusion that we in all likelihood will receive approximately 2000 names for inclusion on the monument. We now expect the cost to be $500,000 dollars.
How can I help?
You can help by seeing that all your family and friends are aware of this project. We can only capture all the names through you and your family’s help. You may also attend our public meetings. You may volunteer to help us achieve our goal, and obviously your financial support is required.
How can I get a copy of my DD Form 214?
The DD Form 214, Report of Separation, is filed in the Official Military Personnel File. Certain basic information is needed to locate military service records. This information includes the veteran’s complete name used while in service, service number or social security number, branch of service and dates of service.
You may get the form free by mailing your request to National Personnel Records Center Military Personnel Records 9700 Page Avenue St. Louis, MO 63132-5100, or you may call the National Records Personnel Center telephone information lines:
Army Reference Branch (314) 538 4122
Air Force Branch (314) 538 4218
Navy Reference Branch (314_ 538 4200
Marines Reference Branch (314) 538 4200
Coast Guard (314) 538 4200
Costs: Generally there is no charge for military personnel and health record information provided to veterans, next of kin, and authorized representatives. If your request involves a service fee, you will be notified as soon as that determination is made.
Response time: Response time varies dependent upon the complexity of your request, the availability of records, and workload. Please do not send a follow up request before 90 days have elapsed as it may cause further delays.