The Highground provides a unique opportunity for individuals and groups to share their appreciation for a special Veteran, a service-hearted loved one or a beloved Military Working Dog/Veteran service dog in their life.

The Highground has assisted in the placement of over 6,300 Honor Stones on the premises including the Meditation Garden Shelter, the Korean War Tribute, the Persian Gulf Tribute, the Military Working Dog Tribute and the Plaza overlooking the moraine landscape. “Each ceremony presents its own emotional challenges as The Highground witnesses Veterans humbled by the presentation of their Honor Stone and opening up about their time in service.  The Highground has watched families lovingly place a stone for their special Veteran who passed because of their time in service or by time itself,” shares Executive Director Chris Pettis.

Each month from May through October, we dedicate a Saturday to the placement of Honor Stones. As family and friends gather around the area where their stone will be placed, members of the crowd are asked to participate in the opening of the ceremonies by ringing The Highground Liberty Bell one time for each of the stones being placed and starting the guests in the Pledge of Alliance and National Anthem. If available, a Veteran organization will formally present military colors. For each ceremony, a Veteran from the crowd is chosen to complete the traditional “Mixing of the Earth” to form the connection between all the stones.

The story does not stop there. The Highground maintains public “Registry Books” that contain information about each Honor Stone. Families and friends are encouraged to share photos, news articles, letters and more as a fluid archive for generations to come. In the future, we will be digitizing the Registry Books to make viewing and submitting items even easier. Families and loved ones from around the world will be able to view this unique collection of information. You’re invited to read their stories. An alphabetical listing of every stone placed onsite is available below and in our Gift Shop if you are looking for a specific stone.

The Highground is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and all stone purchases are considered a tax-deductible donation.