Memorial bench honors female veterans

Memorial Day is a holiday we honor veterans, but one southern Colorado teen wanted to do more.

Her way of honoring, unveiling a memorial at Mayor’s Park in Fountain dedicated to fallen servicewomen.

She was told there were only two memorials like it in the state, and started the process of changing that, three years ago.

When it was unveiled Monday afternoon, she was awestruck.

“I didn’t think it would be this amazing,” said Michayla Cassano.

But she adds the journey to get it was even more worthwhile.

“I’ve met people in World War II and I got to listen to their stories. Not everyone gets to experience that,” she said.

A memorial bench in the park is her Gold Award with the Girl Scouts. A process where she raised funds and met with companies herself to get the bench built.

But her troop leader says it means more than just a show of determination.

“The fact that we have to have the conversation of what women can do and what a woman is capable of, that women can defend their country and defend their freedoms. She recognizes it. This gives her a living legacy,” said Elba Barr, Cassano’s troop leader.

The project wasn’t easy, it was a massive undertaking. At the same time, Cassano had to battle health concerns including two bouts with a blood disorder.

She credits those around her for her success and hopes others will see the bench and take a moment to honor fallen servicewomen.

“Without the support and help from everyone around me, I wouldn’t have been able to do this,” Cassano said.

It’s her way of honoring female veterans, bringing light to their sacrifice years later.