Pensacola belltower honors United States Marines

PENSACOLA, Fla. (WALA) - The City of Pensacola welcomed a brand new memorial to Veteran's Memorial Park on Sunday.

The Marine Aviation Memorial Tower now stands at the heart of the park, recognizing 100 years of Marine Aviation and those Marines who have died in service.

The 30-foot tall tower endured a four-year journey to Pensacola; numerous fundraising efforts helped make it a reality.

Ret. Marine Corps Colonel Chris Holzworth, who helped spearhead the project, says it was a labor of love.

"We all know people that we served with, and that we flew with, who are no longer with us. So it's a very emotional time for us," said Ret. Col. Holzworth.

The bell inside the tower is crafted from parts from Marine aircraft shot down in battle; both it and the tower were built in Ohio and escorted to Pensacola by the Patriot Guard Riders.

Before Sunday, there were only two national memorials dedicated to the Marine Corps: the Iwo Jima Flag Raising and the Beirut Barracks Bombing Memorial.

Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sergeant Bobby Tagle helped raise funds to add a third.

"In the Marine Corps, we always say one team, one fight. This is a great memorial to symbolize every Marine who has assisted in aviation whether in the air or on the ground," Master Gunnery Sgt. Tagle said.

The significance of the memorial isn't lost on those too young to serve for themselves.

Private First Class Ethan Lundy is a part of the Young Marines. He stood at attention for hours guarding the bell at Blue Wahoos' games to help raise money for the cause.

"It means everything to me. It makes me proud to honor those who have served and given their lives for this country," said Lundy.

Holzworth says the tower reminds him of his years as an Operations officer, ordering his fellow Marines in battle.

"Some of those Marines are no longer with us and I think of them every day. We need something to remind the public to honor these people. They were the best of all of us," Holzworth said.