By Carolyn Newcomer Ketchel
Just in time for the celebration of Independence Day, Okaloosa County recently received an unusual donation — a package that includes seven large monument-style stainless steel and bronze plaques, each measuring approximately four feet tall.
These plaques display four of our nation’s most important documents:
- The Declaration of Independence
- The United States Constitution
- The Bill of Rights
- The Civil Rights Amendments
I have been privileged to visit the National Archives in Washington, D.C., and view the original documents. As someone who is deeply patriotic and whose family was part of the founding of this country, I was moved to tears.
When Vance and Mary Jo Patterson viewed the documents in Washington, D.C., they decided to create Foundation Forward Inc. Officially formed in 2013, the nonprofit educational organization promotes civics education and the preservation of American history. Its goal is to place a set of these plaques in each of Florida’s 67 counties.
The plaques are intended to be displayed in locations where citizens have easy access to view these important documents. The only cost to Okaloosa County is the construction of the monument display itself. Typically, displays have been constructed with concrete bases and brick veneers, although some communities have chosen granite or other upgraded finishes.
Okaloosa County is a patriotic military community, and the Board of County Commissioners jumped at the opportunity to accept this gift. The most challenging part of the decision was determining where to install the monuments. Some communities have placed their displays at courthouses, museums or other memorial sites.
Okaloosa County had two obvious choices: the Crestview Courthouse and Women’s Veterans Park on Okaloosa Island. During a Board of County Commissioners meeting, I remarked that we needed another set. Chairman Trey Goodwin quickly responded that we should pursue a second installation.
The good news is that we now have two sets.
One will be placed at the county seat in Crestview, and the second will be unveiled on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. at Women’s Veterans Park.
To learn more about this remarkable gift and its significance as our nation approaches America’s 250th anniversary, type the following link into your browser and watch the short video:
In a community such as ours, very few people need to be reminded that freedom is not free. As we celebrate Independence Day, I especially want to honor the men and women who have served and continue to serve our nation. Because of their sacrifice, we enjoy the privilege of living in the United States of America.
It is an honor to serve as your commissioner.
Carolyn Ketchel is the Okaloosa County commissioner representing District 2. She can be reached at CKetchel@myokaloosa.com or 850-651-7105.
