In October 2024, the Community Foundation of Coffee County awarded a $12,500 grant to the City of Douglas to assist with improvements at Douglas-Coffee County Veterans Park. These funds supported several meaningful upgrades, including the installation of the John S. Gibson Memorial, a brick walkway leading to the Fallen Soldier Statue, re-painting of the insignia in the middle of Veterans Park, planting two trees beside the memorial, and the addition of eight metal benches placed on concrete pads.
One of the most notable additions is the memorial honoring U.S. Representative John S. Gibson, a Douglas native whose legacy continues to have an impact on veterans throughout the United States. On June 10, 1944, Rep. Gibson cast a pivotal vote that helped break a legislative deadlock and pass the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act, commonly known as the G.I. Bill. This landmark legislation has provided millions of veterans with access to higher education, unemployment benefits, and housing assistance.
The City of Douglas and Veterans Park extend their sincere appreciation to the Community Foundation of Coffee County for its generous support and dedication to honoring our nation’s veterans through these impactful projects.
The Veterans Park Committee continues to accept orders for memorial bricks to be placed in Veterans Park. These brick pavers make a meaningful gift for a Veteran and serve as a lasting tribute to their service. To learn more or to order a brick, please contact the Airport at (912) 384-1409 or visit www.cityofdouglasga.gov/veteranspark to download the order form.
