Andrew Ray Veterans Memorial dedicated on Veteran's Day

Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at 11:02 AM

By Joshua Nally

The new memorial will stand as a permanent reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans like Ray, who laid both the literal and figurative groundwork for the community

The town of Rockville gathered on Veterans Day at Beechwood Park to dedicate the brand-new Andrew Ray Veterans Memorial.

This addition to the park honors not only the legacy of local veterans but also the rich history of Rockville as the town continues its bicentennial celebration this year.

Andrew Ray, the memorial’s namesake, was born in 1785 and served in the U.S. Army during the Indian Wars. Known as one of Rockville’s early settlers, Ray played an instrumental role in establishing the town, being one of three men who donated land in February 1824 to create what would become the heart of Rockville.

The memorial dedication ceremony was a poignant reminder of Rockville’s enduring commitment to honor its veterans and preserve its history. Local officials, community members, and veterans gathered to pay tribute to Ray’s military service and foundational contributions to the town. The new memorial will stand as a permanent reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans like Ray, who laid both the literal and figurative groundwork for the community