If you’ve taken a stroll past the cenotaph on Saskatchewan Avenue recently, you may have noticed some fresh construction activity. Wooden forms now surround the monument, marking the latest step in the heartfelt expansion project that is nearly two years in the making.
The project, led by the Portage la Prairie branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, includes two new commemorative stones—one to honour local military members and the other dedicated to Portage-area RCMP officers who gave their lives in the line of duty.
Legion Service Officer Bob Oldford has been at the heart of the effort, driven by a strong sense of community and a desire to ensure no name is forgotten. The stones are set to be installed in early September, with a special unveiling and dedication ceremony planned for Wednesday, September 17th at 2 p.m.
"We're hoping all the concrete work will be done within the next couple of weeks," Oldford says. "Once the concrete work is done and has solidified, we're going to be cleaning the original cenotaph with the proper solutions to preserve it for years to come."
The new granite stones are a significant addition. Each will stand four feet tall and weigh about 1,200 pounds. Once installed, they’ll be covered and kept under wraps until the official unveiling during the ceremony.
Restoration work is also planned for the Hillside Cemetery cenotaph, which includes careful cleaning and sealing of the sandstone monument. The preservation effort aims to protect the detailed carvings from further erosion and ensure the site remains a place of dignity and respect for future generations.
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“We originally estimated we’d need around $25,000,” the organizer explained. “But with the proper cleaning and sealing of both cenotaphs and other improvements, we’re still hoping to raise some additional donations."
Two new park benches will also be added to the downtown site, each with a commemorative plaque. One will pay tribute to Canadian veterans of the Afghanistan conflict, while the other will honour those who served in peacekeeping missions worldwide.
“It’s important to honor them for their service and the ultimate sacrifice they made," he continues. "I'm excited for the project to be complete, and I'm hoping the people of Portage will be happy with it."
For now, community members are encouraged to watch for progress at the cenotaph and consider supporting the effort with a donation.
“We’ve already had some generous local businesses step up, and we’re grateful,” he adds. “But there’s still room to help if you’re thinking about giving.”
Contributions will not only help fund the current work but will also be held in reserve to maintain both monuments for years to come. Donations can be made at Portage la Prairie City Hall, and tax receipts are available.
With the unveiling just two months away, organizers are hopeful the community will continue to rally behind the project. When complete, the expanded cenotaph site will stand as a lasting tribute to local heroes, past, present, and future.
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