Rep. Kaptur Claims Victory at Perry's Memorial
Congresswoman led successful federal and community effort to protect popular site
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) raised a victory flag today following news from the National Park Service (NPS) that Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial will maintain a full time superintendent, on-site support staff and remain an independent Park Service unit. The announcement comes as Put-in-Bay prepares for its annual Independence Day celebrations at the site.
“Perry’s Memorial has proven its value as a premier federal landmark, bringing history to life for thousands of visitors year after year,” said Rep. Kaptur. “Today, just in time for Independence Day, we learned that one of Ohio’s most visited National Park sites and a growing attraction will no longer face consolidation and will remain independent. Please allow me to congratulate all of the citizen advocates who made this possible as well as the National Park Service for their wisdom and diligence in reaching this decision, which they came to by listening to the people they serve. This is great news for the surrounding community and for our region.”
Earlier this year Rep. Kaptur learned of an internal review process at NPS that could have led to the elimination of a full-time supervisor at the site. Kaptur spearheaded a joint letter to the National Park Service (NPS) with other members of the Ohio Congressional delegation to oppose any consolidation at Perry’s Memorial. She also recently secured a commitment from Congressional leaders to work with her to maintain staffing and services at the site.
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial is the second most visited NPS site in the State of Ohio, welcoming nearly 130,000 visitors each year and reaching more than twice as many individuals through education programs and community outreach. Perry’s Memorial hosts Independence Day celebrations each year with a magnificent Fourth of July Fireworks display as well as the annual Put-in-Bay Freedom Concert.
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