PRESS RELEASE

NOVEMBER 1, 2010

MONTFORD POINT MARINE ASSOCIATION (MPMA) Launches a Nationwide Funding Campaign to Build Memorial at Memorial Park in Jacksonville, NC

By Monument Director – Huston T. Shinal

MPMA to construct a Memorial Honoring 20,000 Montford Point Marines

November 1, 2010 – Jacksonville, NC – MPMA announced today, it has initiated a nationwide funding campaign to construct a commemoration memorial to honor 20,000 Montford Point Marines. These Marines of color, trained on the hallowed grounds of the then, Camp Montford Point. Those Marines lead the charge with combating racial inequality and dismantling bias perceptions during WWII. The Montford Point Marines went on to fight for the “Right to Fight” along with and beside their counterparts. Many of those determined Marines made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

The Monument’s, design of (3) concentric rings symbolizes the ripple effect caused by the Montford Point Marines, in the Marine Corps and in society of the times. The Montford Point Marine memorial displays a balance for education, inspiration and provides the environment for groups to openly communicate change. The monument will honor over 20,000 African-American Marines also serve as a reminder of their sacrifices. 

National President of MPMA James T. Averheart said, during a commemoration on Aug. 26 2010. “The Memorial will stand proudly as a physical manifestation of the value in perseverance in the face of adversity”

 

Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C. Said “The Montford Point Marines lead the way for future generations of African-Americans….” “Their bravery and perseverance should be remembered as an example of patriotism and loyal service despite the significant challenges they faced”

General James Conway, Commandant of the Marine Corps stated, on that same occasion “For 60 years, these old training grounds at Monford Point, North Carolina, have reminded us of the courage, determination, and perseverance of the young men who once stood in formation here”. He added “Today we honor them and commemorate this acreage so future generations will know the score of what Happened here”.

The National Association of Montford Point Marines has secured a location at the Memorial Park located in Jacksonville NC. At the intersection of Montford Landing Rd. and NC Hwy 24, to be placed adjacent to the Beirut, Vietnam Veterans, and the 9-11 Memorials.

By Monument Director Huston T, Shinal

(850)499-6727