Howard County Dedicates Veterans and Military Families Monument

The new memorial in downtown Columbia honors service members and their loved ones.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:33pm

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A photorealistic painting of a bronze sculpture featuring three interconnected stars, surrounded by a reflecting pool and benches, all bathed in warm, cinematic lighting reminiscent of the works of Edward Hopper.The dedication of Howard County's new military monument will provide a solemn space for the community to honor service members and their families.Columbia Today

The Howard County community is invited to the dedication ceremony for the new Veterans and Military Families Monument on May 14. The 25,000-square-foot memorial features a sculpture with three symbolic stars representing the greater community, military service members, and those who have died in service. The monument also includes a reflecting pond and bench, and will be engraved with quotes honoring service, freedom, and democracy.

Why it matters

The new monument is a permanent public tribute to the sacrifices of military members and their families in Howard County. It provides a place for the community to gather, reflect, and honor those who have served their country.

The details

The dedication ceremony will include speeches from veteran service organization and community leaders, a ribbon cutting, and a flag raising by a Marine Corps detail. Following the event, Mission BBQ will serve a picnic-style lunch with dessert provided by the Howard County Chamber of Commerce. The monument was designed by commissioned artist Larry Kirkland and is located in the new Vivian C. 'Millie' Bailey Park in downtown Columbia.

  • The dedication ceremony will take place on May 14, 2026 at 11 a.m.
  • The Vivian C. 'Millie' Bailey Park opened in late 2020 in downtown Columbia.

The players

Robert Gillette

President of the Howard County Veterans Foundation.

Larry Kirkland

The commissioned artist chosen to create the 25,000-square-foot monument.

Vivian C. 'Millie' Bailey

A longtime Howard County resident and community leader, recognized for her military service during World War II and lifelong commitment to public service.

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What they’re saying

“What started as an idea became a vision and today is a reality. We invite everyone to join us, our many supporters and our local heroes for a ceremony of honor and remembrance as we celebrate this newly completed landmark.”

— Robert Gillette, President, Howard County Veterans Foundation

What’s next

Following the dedication ceremony, the new Veterans and Military Families Monument will be open to the public as a permanent memorial and gathering place in downtown Columbia.

The takeaway

The new monument in Howard County serves as a powerful symbol of the community's deep appreciation and support for its military service members and their families. It provides a meaningful space for honoring their sacrifices and commemorating their service to the country.