The Collier County Freedom Memorial will pay tribute to armed forces, law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and civilians.

NAPLES, Fla. (March 5, 2009) — A result of many years of grassroots work of several private citizens of Collier County will culminate the morning of Thursday, March 19, with the official groundbreaking ceremony for The Collier County Freedom Memorial (images and more available at www.CollierRemembers.org).

Organizers sought to construct a permanent memorial reminding us, and future generations, of our freedom and what it means. It will stand as a tribute to the members of our Armed Forces who have sacrificed their lives to preserve our freedom and to honor law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and civilians who perished during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Naples artist Gerald A. Ladue created the memorial design. Organizers expect to complete construction in approximately 60 days, with the ribbon cutting tentatively scheduled for June 9. The radius of the memorial will be 120-130 feet. While construction details are still being finalized, the group aims to incorporate green and/or recycled elements where possible. Contributions are still being accepted.

WHAT: Groundbreaking for The Collier County Freedom Memorial

WHO: Organized and funded by citizens of Collier County

WHERE: Freedom Park, Naples northeast corner of Golden Gate Parkway and Goodlette- Frank Road

WHEN: Thursday, March 19, 2009, at 10 a.m.

INFO: www.CollierRemembers.org

The Freedom Memorial mission:

To pay tribute to service members who have sacrificed their lives to preserve our freedom and to honor law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and civilians who perished during the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center, Pentagon, United Airlines Flights 175 and 93 and American Airlines Flights 77 and 11.

To acknowledge the survivors of all horrific terrorist attacks and to show consideration for the family members of those murdered.

To pay homage to all Americans who have sacrificed for the defense of our nation, for peace and for freedom.

To symbolically display the strength of the American spirit in times of tragedy.

Media Contacts:John Torre

239.252.8011

JohnyTorre@CollierGov.netJesse Landis

727.821.5155 x106