Possibly one of the most touching pieces of the walk is the dedication by families and friends to veterans and soldiers who lost their fight to the battle of mental illness.

Blumen Gardens donates 22 "mini-boulders" which are then cleaned, polished, and carved by Rock Solid Sayings Engraving with the name of the veteran or soldier who has taken their life.  The rocks are placed at the base of the waterfall prior to the walk, then carried on the 2.2 mile walk by the person dedicating the rock (or if they are not present, someone who would like to carry a rock).  At the completion of the walk, the rocks are again placed together, a prayer is led, followed by the playing of Taps by a bugler.  This is a very meaningful part of the day's events.

If you or someone you know would like to dedicate a rock to someone, please contact the "Be the One" Chairperson by phone or text at 815-540-7364.  We will need to know the name of the veteran or soldier, your name, and a phone number at which we can reach you.

There is NO COST to you for the rock and engraving. The rock can be yours to keep or deliver to the family of the veteran.