Nebraskan Fallen Heroes
Each Fallen Nebraska Military and First Responder Hero has a Story
Each fallen hero’s family member has a story. A tree named for each Nebraska fallen hero will provide lasting comfort and support to each family.
The Nebraska Memorial Forest will be a living tribute for all to visit. A sanctuary to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice the fallen made for our freedom and safety. An open place in nature where we can say with a grateful heart of the fallen hero, “I sincerely Honor and Remember you and I’m humbled to say your name.”
Benefits to Nebraska
Nebraska Memorial Forest
Locations
Memorial Park
Lake Cunningham
Levi-Carter Park
NP Dodge Park
Nebraska Parkway
Youngman Park
Prairie Queen Park
Horning State Park
Summit Lake
The 92 trees along this hallowed area of Summit Lake State Recreation Area were planted October 30, 2024. Scan the QR code to find a specific hero’s tree and discover more about them.
Frequently Asked Questions?
How is eligibility for a tree determined?
Tree eligibility is any Nebraska fallen military and first responder heroes who died while serving our county or from exposure to Agent Orange, burn pit toxins or losing their battle with PTSD from Spanish-American War forward.
Who makes up the Nebraska Memorial Forest team?
The NMF team, the ‘Coalition of the Willing’, is comprised of respected executive and senior leaders with extensive environmental knowledge, skills, networks, and resources to fulfill the vision. Team members are Honor and Remember Nebraska Chapter, Nebraska Forest Service, Nebraska Resource Districts, American Reforestation Initiative, Parks and Recreation Directors, businesses, Conservation/Environmental organizations, Chambers of Commerce, Nebraska nurseries and volunteers who help plant and care for the trees.
How will a Fallen Hero tree be identified?
A interactive map using GPS to mark and locate each Fallen Hero tee will be used. The interactive map will provide pictures, general information and story information if available on each Fallen Hero.
What are the size and species and size of trees?
The trees are 6’ to 7’ tall when planted. Nebraska arborists choose the tree type from the many hearty species of trees common in Nebraska and that do well in each specific Nebraska Memorial Forest location.
What is the per tree cost?
Per tree cost is $300. This is based on discussions with NRDs, Nebraska Forest Service, Parks and Recreation leadership and nurseries. The $300 includes the cost of a 6’ to 7’ seven gallon grow bag tree, transportation costs, auguring the holes, mulching, maintaining the trees (staking, watering, protective sleeves, spraying if needed), signage, pathways and bench(s).
Is there any additional costs?
The interactive map technology is a seperate cost from the per tree cost and will require addtional funds to be raised. Cost to include recording each tree GPS location, picture of each tree, research of Fallen Hero information, tracking and organizing information, database, importing to the map, updating/adding to Fallen Hero information and yearly maintenance of the map and website.
How is the project funded?
The project is funded by organizations and individuals who feel it is worthy to have a tree planted for every Nebraska fallen. Funding sources are private/public partnerships, foundations, grants, the business community, local communities, families, and individuals.
How can I donate?
We have partnered with Midlands Community Foundation so we can accept donations. You can use this link to donate. For more information contact Jim Meier, Director, Honor and Remember Nebraska Chapter.
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