FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 22, 2025)— The Kentucky National Guard Memorial, located at the Boone National Guard Center in Frankfort has been added to the Registry of Kentucky Military Heritage Sites. This significant nomination was approved unanimously during the Kentucky Military Heritage Commission's meeting on Dec. 4, 2024.
“We are proud of this well-deserved recognition for the folks who serve and have served in the Kentucky National Guard,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “What a wonderful way to honor the dedication and sacrifice of our Kentucky National Guard soldiers and airmen, who aid our citizens and keep our New Kentucky Home safe.”
“Kentucky National Guard soldiers and airmen have consistently demonstrated selfless service, supporting our nation in conflict, aiding our communities in disaster and building enduring partnerships. Recognizing the Kentucky National Guard Memorial as a Kentucky Military Heritage Site preserves their historic sacrifices and ensures their exceptional service will be honored for generations,” said Maj. Gen. Haldane B. Lamberton, Kentucky's adjutant general.
The memorial features a 22-foot-wide granite stone in the shape of Kentucky bearing the names of Kentucky National Guard soldiers and airmen who have died in the line of duty. The names of soldiers and airmen who fell in the line of duty are engraved on the stone.
The memorial also includes a 125% life-sized bronze statue of Daniel Boone, recognized as one of the most prominent figures among the predecessors of the Kentucky Guard. The Boone National Guard Center, located behind the memorial, is named in his honor.
“The Kentucky National Guard Memorial stands proudly as a symbol of honor and remembrance, embodying the rich military heritage of Kentucky,” said BG(R) Benjamin F. Adams III of the Kentucky National Guard Memorial Fund Inc. “Its designation as a Kentucky Military Heritage Site solidifies its significance in honoring the brave men and women of the Kentucky Army and Air National Guard. The memorial serves as a poignant reminder of sacrifice, courage and service to the nation. Visitors from near and far are welcome to pay tribute to the heroes who have served and defended our state and country. This recognition ensures that their legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to uphold the values of duty, loyalty and patriotism.”
This designation underscores the profound significance of the Kentucky National Guard Memorial, a site dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifices of Kentucky National Guard members.
“Including the Kentucky National Guard Memorial in the Kentucky Military Heritage Registry ensures its preservation and strengthens its role in educating future generations about the valor and legacy of Kentucky's military history,” said retired USAF/ANG Brig. Gen. Steven P. Bullard, chair of the Kentucky Military Heritage Commission.
As a registered Kentucky Military Heritage Site, the memorial is now protected by state law (KRS 171.780 through KRS 171.788). It cannot be damaged, destroyed or altered without the commission's consent, except for necessary repairs or renovations. This protection ensures that the monument will continue to honor the legacy of Kentucky's military heroes for generations to come. The monument stands as a lasting tribute to the bravery, dedication and commitment of those who have served and continue to serve both our Commonwealth and our nation.
This achievement is made even more meaningful thanks to the tireless efforts of retired Sgt. 1st Class John M. Trowbridge, the memorial's volunteer historian and founding chairman. His dedication to preserving the military history of the commonwealth has been instrumental in achieving this recognition.
About the Kentucky National Guard Memorial
The Kentucky National Guard Memorial is funded entirely through donations from corporate and private supporters to the Kentucky National Guard Memorial Fund Inc. and does not receive government funding. Contributions play a vital role in maintaining and preserving this sacred site. To learn more about the memorial's mission or to contribute, please visit www.kyngmemorial.org.
About the Kentucky Military Heritage Commission
The Kentucky Military Heritage Commission was created by an act of the General Assembly as an independent agency of the Commonwealth of Kentucky but attached to the Kentucky Heritage Council for administrative and support purposes. The commission consists of the Adjutant General, the State Historic Preservation Officer, the Executive Director of the Kentucky Historical Society, the Executive Director of the Commission on Military Affairs and the Commissioner of the Department of Veteran's Affairs.
As a means of protection, the commission is charged with maintaining a registry of Kentucky military heritage sites and objects significant to the military history of the commonwealth. The commission accepts requests from the public for the designation of military heritage sites and objects – including buildings, monuments and community resources – that represent all eras of Kentucky's military history.
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An agency of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, the Kentucky Heritage Council / State Historic Preservation Office is responsible for the identification, protection and preservation of prehistoric resources and historic buildings, sites and cultural resources throughout the Commonwealth, in partnership with other state and federal agencies, local communities and interested citizens. www.heritage.ky.gov