From the podium, Sterling Schultz speaks to attendees during an event at the Republic Veterans Memorial along Republic Avenue in 2018. Veterans, donors and residents are invited to an appreciation event at the memorial, which was funded entirely by local donations, at 4 p.m. Friday, weather permitting, followed by refreshments at the township hall. (Photo courtesy of Sterling Shultz)

REPUBLIC — “Sincere gratitude.”

Those are the words Sterling Shultz, fundraising organizer for the Republic Township Veterans Memorial, says he wants to convey with an “appreciation day” on Friday.

“I want to say thank you, not only for the people who donated but especially the people on the wall, so we can show appreciation for them and recognize who they are in the neighborhood,” he said. “That’s basically what it’s for.”

Schultz said over the course of 2.5 years about $40,000 in private donations was raised for the memorial, which holds about 1,000 names.

“We erected this memorial to honor all veterans from the Republic area who served in the military in any capacity from the Civil War to the present, whether living or already passed,” Schultz said. “I thank everyone who made this memorial possible, and I would love for everyone involved to come out, bring your family and see what we, together, have accomplished.”

The event will open at 4 p.m. with speeches at the memorial along Republic Avenue, weather permitting, Schultz said. Food, drinks and friendship will follow at the Republic Township Hall on Kloman Avenue until 6 p.m.