Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) —  Orange Beach Public Works recently completed placing a second batch of commemorative bricks at the Orange Beach Veterans Memorial. The bricks honor local veterans and first responders. Families and friends chose the memorial as a lasting way to recognize their loved ones. Branches of service represented include the Coast Guard, Army, Marines, Navy, and Air Force.

Those honored include veterans who served in Vietnam and World War II, current and former service members, and Orange Beach firefighters who have died. The memorial continues to grow as more families participate in the brick program. The project is open to all veterans, not only those who have passed away, and also includes first responders.

Gail Cole of Gulf Shores purchased a brick to honor her father, Robert Estes, for his U.S. Army service. She and her husband visited the memorial on Saturday, August 8, to see the brick in place. Cole shared her thoughts after the visit.

"My husband and I went to the Veterans Memorial Saturday, and it truly is a beautiful way to honor those who have served," she said. "It's such a well-thought-out design and layout. So impressive for anyone who visits. I'm so blessed to have my father remembered in such a beautiful Veterans Memorial."

The Orange Beach Veterans Memorial sits in front of the Municipal Complex at 4101 Orange Beach Boulevard. A limited number of engravable bricks remain available for purchase. Each engraved brick measures four inches by eight inches and costs $200.

Residents can submit a brick request via an online form on the city's website or pick up a paper form at Orange Beach City Hall. Completed forms can also be delivered to the Finance Department. Once a request is submitted, approved, and paid, it can take up to three months for the brick to be installed.

The third order of bricks is scheduled for placement on August 20, with installation expected in late September. For more information, residents can visit orangebeachal.gov/Veterans-Memorial.