SPRINGFIELD — Ruth Lee has never been to war. She is a ferocious fighter, however.
During Monday’s Memorial Day observance at the Effingham County Board of Education office, Lee was honored for her efforts to establish Veterans Park of Effingham County. The event was originally slated to occur at the park across from the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office on Ga. Hwy 21 but was moved indoors because of rain.
“That place is my heart,” Lee said after the ceremony, still holding a plaque adorned with a color photo of the park.
Tommy Allen, a member of the Veterans Park of Effingham County Committee, presented the memento to Lee, a leader in the planning and fundraising for the facility.
“... it only feels right to honor this person for the hard work and dedication they have given through the years to not only make sure this park was built, but to make sure it is preserved and well taken care of for future generations,” Allen said, reading a statement written by fellow committee member Julie Hales. Hales was unable to attend the event due to an illness.
Lee, completely surprised by the gesture, was roundly applauded as she took the stage to accept the plaque.
“There were so many people that helped make (the park) happen,” Lee said. “It is a community park built by Effingham County.”
Veterans Park, built 21 years ago at a cost of $370,000, recognizes all Effingham County veterans from 1776 through today.