Governor Unveils Gulf War Monument in Downtown Nashville

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Veterans Services Commissioner Courtney Rogers, Deputy Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Tommy Baker, State Rep. Micah Van Huss (R-TN) and Department of Veterans Services Regional Director Tim Forte participated in a solemn unveiling ceremony for the new Gulf War Monument this afternoon on the Legislative Plaza in downtown Nashville.

The Gulf War Monument honors the bravery and sacrifice of Tennesseans who served during Operations Desert Storm and Shield, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“It’s a testament to the patriotic spirit of Tennesseans that so many served their country during these conflicts,” said Lee. “Tennesseans have played an important role in making the world a safer place for democracy to flourish and we are proud of their selfless service and sacrifice.”

“This monument will serve as a place where all Tennesseans can reflect upon the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women,” said Rogers. “It also serves as a reminder of the loss and courage of the surviving families who must move forward and continue to carry on with their lives.”

Maj. Gen. Baker, Rep. Van Huss and Tim Forte delivered remarks on their service during these conflicts in the Middle East.

“These memorials will not only be a testament of this generation’s service, but they will be an inspiration and constant reminder to those who follow us what it means to serve,” said Maj. Gen. Baker. Baker deployed in 2004 and 2008 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and has served for 39 years.

Van Huss, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who deployed once to Afghanistan and three times to Iraq said, “Veterans of the Middle East have carried on the tradition of the American fighting spirit. I’m grateful for those that paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

“As I reflect back on Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield and this brief time in history, we who served during this time, know that our roles whether small or large will now and always be remembered,” said Forte. Forte served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 24 years and deployed in support of Operations Desert Storm and Shield, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.