1. What’s the purpose of this project?
We want to energize the community and country to build a monument at Fort Jackson in order to honor those trainees and trainers that have trained here, and to enkindle patriotism for the United States and demonstrate honor and respect for the US Army.
2. What exactly are you commemorating?
One hundred years of Fort Jackson serving our nation
3. How are you selecting the design?
Our board with input from the Fort Jackson leadership will select the design.
4. Where will this be built?
The Fort Jackson and US Army leadership is still determining that, but it will be on post.
5. Will the community get to enjoy this?
Fort Jackson does not have open access, but there are several events throughout the year which allows the community to enter the post and we hope they will visit the site of this project.
6. Why are you proposing building this?
Centennial Park will serve as a testament to the Patriotism, History and Service of Soldiers who have proudly served our Nation for more than 100 years. We, Soldiers and Civilians alike, believe their dedication to the Army Values and the principles upon which our Nation stands warrants recognition.
7. How is the project being funded?
Funding will primarily be obtained from donations procured from individuals, organizations, corporations who support the mission and vision of the Gateway to the Army Association.
8. How can I contribute to this project?
Our donations page will guide you through the contribution process. We have designed our website to make this process as secure and user-friendly as possible. Thank you for your donation!
9. Do I receive anything in return for my contribution?
We have designed several donation levels so as many supporters as possible can contribute to our efforts. Each level is explained in detail on our donations page.
10. Are contributions tax deductible?
Yes. The IRS has approved Gateway as an IRS 501(c)(3) public charity. Contributions are deductible under Section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code as charitable deductions. Bequests, devises, transfers or gifts to Gateway are further deductible under sections 2055, 2106, or 2522 of the Internal Revenue Code
11. What does the name "Centennial Park" signify?
In 2017, Fort Jackson, the largest Army Initial Entry Training Center, will celebrate its 100th anniversary. It's storied history, beginning in WWI to present day, is replete with chapter and verse of honored service and dedication to principles greater than any one individual. As a "park", it will stand as a location for newly trained Soldiers and their Families to visit and reflect on a storied past as well as what lies ahead for those young Patriots determined to serve our Nation as a U.S. Army Soldier.
12. When is Centennial Park projected for completion?
Centennial Park is projected for a phased design and construction process. We expect to unveil the first stage, the statue and amphitheater, sometime in mid-2017.
13. What are the different elements of Centennial Park?
Centennial Park will consist of four main elements:
- U.S. Army Soldier Statue
- Ceremonial Amphitheater
- Pathway of Patriots
- Wartime Theater Memorial
14. Why does the statue depict U.S. Army Drill Sergeants?
We believe the U.S. Army Drill Sergeant stands as one of the iconic symbols of the world's greatest fighting force. The Drill Sergeant embodies the ideals and values each Soldier strives to emulate throughout his/her time served as a U.S. Army Soldier. Greeting and training each new trainee in their own unique way, in many respects, the Drill Sergeant can easily be considered the true "Gateway to the Army"!
15. How much will it cost to build Centennial Park?
Initial cost projections of Centennial Park range from $1,300,000 to $1,500,000.
16. Who is designing and building Centennial Park?
Ron Clamp, SCE (Stone-Carver Extraordinaire), is our lead designer and builder. He has assembled a team of artisans (architects, landscapers, etc.) dedicated to this project and the dedication and diligence it demands.
17. How did you select the architect?
Our board selected the architect due to his proven ability and previously successful projects.