Our nation, comprised of people from all around the globe, formally began its quest for independence in Massachusetts, embattled at Lexington and Concord, on April 19, 1775. Our ancestors and the founding citizens charted an historical enclave of documents and stories that have become our history. Through many military conflicts, campaigns and warfare, Wayne County citizens have enlisted, supported, fought, and died for the nation they called home. Despite the controversies that came before and extend beyond the battlefield, and rather because of the ongoing efforts of these local men and women through times of national strength and weakness, we now commemorate their contributions.