Military equipment's arrival at park delayed

HOBART | Plans to place military equipment at Veterans Memorial Park are on hold, City Councilman Jerry Herzog, D-1st, said.

Herzog said he received an email from a company representative in Warren, Mich., that the equipment city officials hoped to obtain and have in place by Memorial Day isn't immediately available.

The equipment includes a retired Vietnam-era M60 armored tank and a 105-millimeter howitzer.

Officials said last year that placing the equipment at the park would serve to remember those who have served and to educate the public.

Although disappointed about the delay, Herzog said he and other city officials will keep moving forward.

"We haven't given up," Herzog said.

Herzog, who is spearheading the efforts to raise money for the equipment, said fundraising efforts also will continue for the project.

City officials and veterans estimate they will need to raise about $4,000 for related expenses to bring in the two pieces and set them up on a concrete pad.

Herzog said local veterans organizations have already raised money and he is working with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Motorcycle Club to do a bike fundraiser this summer.

City officials are also planning on making some improvements at Veterans Memorial Park this spring, including adding more shelters and bathrooms.

Veterans Memorial Park is on 73rd Avenue just west of Ind. 51.