For America's Credit Union President and CEO Ken Leonard, who grew up as an Army brat, the decision to work on the creation of both the Memorial and Reflection Parks, respectively, on Joint Base Lewis-McChord was an easy one.

"I've been part of the military most of my life, so this project has value and meaning for me," he explained. "Plus I think this is a lasting and necessary monument, so I am more than willing to commit my time and energy."

The purpose of Reflection Park is to memorialize the names of fallen Servicemembers with ties to Washington state, from all the branches of service and from all major conflicts since World War I.

At the end of 2011, Leonard and the rest of the volunteer board accomplished one goal by completing and installing all the entry stones and benches in place at the Memorial Park, which is located on JBLM Main near the Cascade Community Center, and has room for 17 specific memorials from different units on the base.

The board also made plans to use land that is across from the Fort Lewis Museum; a smaller space than they'd originally looked at in order to reduce the overall price tag on the project.

In December, more funds for Reflection Park were collected when ACU contributed $7,500 from its 10th annual Holiday Troop Support Golf Tournament at Eagles Pride Golf Course. Another golf tournament fundraiser will be held in April as well, yet more is needed.

"For the amount that we need to generate, it will only happen through grants," he said. In fact, Leonard and the board estimate that even the modified plans will cost somewhere in the ballpark of $3 million in order to accomplish everything it wants. As of now, the group is looking for grant writers willing to work for the cause and donate their time.

In addition to work on Reflection Park, Leonard will also be working with the JBLM Stryker Brigades to complete their respective memorials in Memorial Park.

"I would love to have Reflection Park done within the next three years," said Leonard. "Realistically that might be tough, with all of the assistance we need from the DoD and the economy being what it is, but I am optimistic."

For more information or to get involved as a volunteer, visit http://reflectionpark.org/. Those on base can also stop by the main ACU branch (12th and Pendleton, JBLM Main) to make a donation or learn more.