IPSWICH – A meaningful tribute to Ipswich’s military service members is now under construction on South Main Street, where local veteran’s groups and volunteers are building a commemorative brick walkway that leads to the town’s Veterans Memorial.
The project is part of a broader effort to honor the more than 140 Ipswich residents who gave their lives in service during conflicts ranging from the Revolutionary War to the Vietnam War.
The new walkway replaces an older path and will be paved with engraved bricks and pavers, each bearing the name of a local veteran.
Crews began work in early June under the summer sun, with temperatures soaring into the 90s. Despite the heat, progress has been steady. Local mason Dave Keough and his team, along with community volunteers, have been laying the foundation for what many hope will become a lasting place of reflection and pride.
The walkway will feature standard 4 by 8-inch bricks and larger 12 by 12-inch pavers. Each brick allows space for up to three lines of text, with 16 characters per line.
Installation is expected to continue through July with hydroseeding of the surrounding lawn planned to help the grass recover before the official dedication. That ceremony is scheduled for 1 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 27.
Organizers say the event will be a respectful and patriotic occasion and expect many active-duty service members to attend. It will also include a detailed presentation on Ipswich’s wartime history, the result of months of research and reflection by those leading the project.
To learn more about the walkway or to purchase an engraved brick in honor of a veteran, contact the Veterans Services Office at Ipswich Town Hall for further information. ♦
