HONORING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TOMB OF THE UNKNOWN SOLDIER WITH THE NEVER FORGET GARDEN AT HISTORIC MANISTEE RANCH

Perhaps the most notable addition to the historic Manistee Ranch Park is the “Never Forget Garden”, that honors the 100th Anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Solider. The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). through the Anasazi Chapter created the concept of a way to honor the 100th anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Chapter was provided $1,000 donation from Major Jerry Weiers for a project. The Chapter reached out to the Glendale Arizona Historical Society for any suggestion. Manistee Ranch Volunteer and GAHS member John Geurs contacted the Chapter and offered to create a garden of roses at historic Manistee Ranch.

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John Geurs and his wife Paulette Geurs took on an extensive and difficult project by themselves. John was able to get various private companies and vendors to donate time and materials. John asked the City of Glendale Parks and recreation for help. The DAR members helped. The majority of 500 man/women hours was both John and Paulette physically building the “Never Forget Garden”. The Manistee Ranch security camera captured the two toiling almost daily with wheel barrel and hand equipment. The total project done by a contractor would have cost $11,000. John coordinated the project with DAR.

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John then worked jointly with DAR representatives in developing the wonderful April 30, 2022 dedication ceremony. The Mayor, city representatives and DAR and historical society members attended. There were forty people attending the ceremony. Dr. James Cates provided a stirring and information presentation on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

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John Geurs went to a grower of roses and was able to get donated 21 white rose bushes to reflect the 21 steps taken by the single sentry guarding the tomb day and night. The sentry walks one half hour before a change in sentry in the summer and an hour in the winter.

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John and Paulette voluntarily worked for months to complete the “Never Forget Garden” project. Both have given of themselves with this project as a work of love for their country and community. Thank you, John and Paulette.