New Britain herald., 1928-09-24
Mayor Paonessa Accepts
 Shaft in Behalf of City

"The citizens Of New Britain are happy today to accept, with | deep sense of gratitude to its memorial committee. this splendid work of art. this admirable tribute to its Le- zion of Honor-the 12s men who fought and died that our nation might live.
 Your committee. Mir. Chairman, is to be complimented. The archi- tect from whose drawing board plans for this shaft came forth, the mechanics and the sculptors who executed the design. have all estab- lished themselves in the hearts of . we'll pleased community. The con- struction of municipal memorial is a task that Is beset with many dis appointments: it is a work that is oftentimes discouraging. But it is 10 the credit of the citizens of New Britain, and their World War Me- morial committee, that they so revered the memory of their soldier dead, that no obstacle could do more
 
 ment. Today their work has been brought to a glorious conclusion. They have the satisfaction of stand ing in the midst of their fellowmen and presenting to grateful city. the fruits of four years of hard work. The community accepts with thanks. proud of its memorial and proud of those who made this me- morial possible.
 This shaft has not risen as a proud memento of conflict fought and won. It is not dedicated to war. on the contrary it is hoped that it will be a constant reminder of the horrors of war! It is an express sion of New Britain's appreciation cf her fallen sons. Let us so regard 1 it.
 ] If we are to regard this monu- ment merely as work of art. it influence will be entirely lost. It ia artistic to be sure, but it is more than that. It is a memorial and ar inspiration. From every corner ot the city it can be seen by day and by night. How can anyone turr his eyes in the direction of Walnut Hill park with this sacred spire ris. ing to the heavens without recalling to mind it's story of brotherly love Towering over our city. it will keer alive in the minds and hearts o coming generations. the story O. these townsmen who. like theil brave predecessors of 1776. wen forth in defense of their country.
 This stone and bronze has beer made sacred by the purposes tt which it is dedicated and the deed it commemorates. These tablets W, see about the circular base of th, memorial, each representing on' man who died in the war, are silan stories Of sacrifice. heroism and pa triotism. Read them: they includ every nationality and creed. mel from every walk of life. men iron every corner of our city. United b, a common bond. they marched ol and on, until war exacted it's toll an, they fell-human sacrifices. martyr of 1917 and 1918.
 '1t is great honor to take a par, whether it he large or small. in tn deGication of this memorial to tn World War dead. Several years az it was my privilege to appoint
 committee to carry through this pro iocf. I have followed with interes the work which has resulted in it construction. and share with you to day. your happiness in its comple / tion. share with you. kin of ou 'o~ion of Honor. your sorrow.
 ''It shall he my endnavor to be frequent visitor 10 this shrine C natrintism. hope all of our cit zens will do likewise. Patriotisr and good citizenship are inseparabl'