Veterans Memorial Project Moves Forward

The City of Bedford continues to move forward with plans to build a Veterans Memorial at Harris Ryals Park, located at 2700 Cummings Drive. City staff is currently working with the design firm to finalize the memorial design and construction documents. Construction is expected to begin in January or February 2026, with an estimated completion in summer 2026, weather permitting.

Earlier this year, the City Council approved the memorial’s conceptual design and authorized the use of interest earnings from the 2019 General Obligation Taxable Bond to fund the project. 

Mayor Cogan and Councilman Rich Steves, a veteran himself, have been deeply involved in the design process alongside City staff. Their shared vision focuses on reimagining the three small POW/MIA monuments placed at City Hall in 1974 and creating a more prominent, meaningful place of remembrance, for the individuals that were recognized in 1974 as well as all veterans who have served our country. As part of that vision, stone from the former Boys Ranch gymnasium will be incorporated into the memorial, connecting Bedford’s past with this new tribute.

When complete, the monument will include bronze seals for all six branches of the military, a bronze dedication plaque, along with the 1974 POW/MIA plaques from the small monuments. The monument will span 21-feet long, and include a seating area in front of it, landscaping, and three flagpoles with lights for the U.S., Texas, and POW/MIA flags to fly behind the monument. In addition, City officials worked with American Legion Branch 379 and VFW Post 10454 to review the design and provide their input.

Harris Ryals Park is a particularly special home for the memorial. Its namesake, Harris Ryals, served in the Army’s 88th Division during WWII, completed two tours in Korea, and received the Bronze Star for bravery in Vietnam. After 22 years of military service, he dedicated another 21 years to the Bedford community as part of the Parks and Recreation Department. Mr. Ryals passed away in 2010 at age 88, but his legacy of service, both to our country and to Bedford, continues to be deeply felt.