OCALA, FL (352today.com) – It’s more than bricks and mortar. It’s a new initiative set to honor local heroes in a meaningful way, right here in Marion County. This fall, families will have the chance to see the names and legacies of veterans celebrated for both their service to the nation and their impact on the community.

A Marion County Veterans Hall of Fame will open with an induction ceremony set for Wednesday, Nov. 5, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion.  A large gathering of veterans is expected to attend the event, said Todd Belknap, president of Veterans Helping Veterans and vice chair of the Marion County Veterans Council. He called it a place where former service members can be honored and enshrined, noting that it was something Marion County has long needed.  While a permanent location for the Hall of Fame has not yet been finalized, the recognition will begin this year.

Veterans Helping Veterans will be handling the nomination process as well as the inductees in concert with Marion County. The initial class will have an inductee from every branch, said Belknap. There will also be a number of posthumous inductees. There will be other categories, honoring civilians and businesses from the community for their work and contributions in support of veterans and veterans’ organizations.

Belknap said the banners currently on display at the Ocala/Marion County Veterans Memorial Park, – featuring prominent local veterans – rotate every three to six months to spotlight as many individuals as possible. There are plans to expand that effort.

“The good news on the banners is that we’re working with the county and the city to display those veterans’ banners to recognize the men and women who have honorably served their country,” said Belknap. “We’re looking to display those banners along E. Silver Springs Blvd. That’s in the mix, so we’ll be able to have more out there, so they’ll stay out longer. Some of those people that you see on those banners will be inducted into the Hall of Fame.”

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