Eastern Iowa vet builds war memorial in front yard

MARENGO - An Eastern Iowa man has built his own war memorial to honor “all of Iowa's veterans.” Joe Matthess, of Marengo, said his idea to build a memorial in his front yard started small, but grew bigger and bigger.

“I got the contractor down, I said I want to put a flag pole up, and he said oh we got to go big, we got to do this right,” said Matthess, a Vietnam vet.

Matthess said it took about two weeks and 25 hours worth of labor to build the two-wall, seven-flag structure. He said he has received a lot of help and support from community members.

“Everybody just said, let us help, and it just humbled me,” he said.

The memorial pays tribute to all branches of the military and all conflicts. Matthess said he even made sure to secure a U.S. Coast Guard flag because he knew of one local veteran who served with the Coast Guard.

“I am just proud of everyone who has served,” he said.

Engraved on the side of the black concrete structure are the words: “Some gave some. Some gave all. Some are still giving.” Matthess said he started the project with the intent of footing the bill, but has found many vendors willing to donate their time and service.

All veterans also have the opportunity to leave their mark on the wall. Matthess invites anyone who has served to engrave their name in the back of the wall.

The memorial is located in Matthess' front yard, 495 W South Street, in Marengo. Matthess said he welcomes questions about the wall at smuggy48@gmail.com. He asks veterans to please contact him before signing.