RANDOLPH -- The grounds are not quite ready, but those who worked so hard for a new memorial to honor service men and women were determined to hold a dedication ceremony on Veterans Day.

Dedication of the new veterans memorial is at 11 a.m. on Tuesday at the Randolph Town Office, which is on Kinderhook Street.

Selectman Peter Hanley, who headed up the effort, said all are invited.

"They put it up yesterday," Hanley said Wednesday. "Honestly and truly, it's beautiful. Our hard work has paid off."

"Many families in Randolph have sent their sons and daughters off to serve their country," he said. "One family, the Morangs, have had a family member in most of the conflicts since WWII."

He said Raymond Morang served in World War l; Clifford, Raymond and Raymond Jr., World War ll; Richard Morang, Korean War; David Morang, Ramond Morang lll and Ronald Morang, Vietnam; and Raymond Morang lV, Somalia.

The committee chose a black marble memorial from Collette Monuments of Sabattus. The names of veterans will be placed on both sides of the stone, which is 10 feet wide and 5 feet high.

Hanley said Randolph sent 225 of its men to serve their country in World War II, seven of whom were killed. The Randolph Veterans Committee raised $20,000 for the project.

"Through small donations from generous people we have passed our goal," Hanley said.

A light luncheon at the American Legion Hall on Griffen Street in Gardiner will follow. The grounds are scheduled to be finished in the spring.

Mechele Cooper -- 623-3811, Ext. 408

mcooper@centralmaine.com