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However, much is left to do, and as time goes along, plaques will be erected for each war at the center of each wall, and a fountain will be added to the esplanade. Future Living Memorial Ceremonies will continue to add trees around the park’s perimeter while groups at Dobbins Air Reserve Base will provide park benches and other decorations deemed appropriate, including additional areas for remembrances of those POWs and MIAs from the Gulf War and the War on Terror.

Finally, today’s ceremony has a special remembrance and tribute to Ms. Libby Scarberry, the founder of the Tree Planting Ceremony who passed away early last year. A devout member of auxiliaries for AFSA, the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, she championed the causes of servicemembers across all branches. It was her inspiration and determination that led to the decision to build the POW/MIA Park. A collection of her memories is on display for today’s ceremony.

Photo: Former POW and retired Navy Lt. Commander Stephen R. Harris, Air Force Sergeants Association International Auxiliary President, Carolyn Whitsell, and 94th Airlift Wing Support Group Commander Col. Steve Slick, cut the ribbon to officially dedicate the Dobbins POW/MIA Memorial Park. Harris and his crew were captured by the North Koreans in 1968 while assigned to the U.S.S. Pueblo.