‘Boots on the Ground’ in Newport holds special meaning for veterans

NEWPORT, R.I. (WLNE) — A touching display in Newport this Memorial Day weekend, as veterans gathered for the annual ‘Boots on the Ground’ memorial.

Hundreds of boots lined Fort Adams in honor of United States service members killed in action post-9/11.

“It gives you a moment to look and say ‘these are the people who sacrificed and gave a lot more than anyone else,'” said Clarence Dixon, a U.S. Air Force member from 1952 to 1981.

Family, friends, and fellow service members visited to pay their respects.

“There’s much respect for not only those here that you can’t talk to anymore, but the folks that support do a lot of good work,” said Gary Rehak, a U.S. Field Artillery veteran.

The event was first held at Roger Williams Park in Providence, but after a few years, organizers decided that Fort Adams was the perfect place.

“It was a perfect fit, and once we found it here we knew we had our home,” said Operation Stand Down Chief of Outreach Brian Sullivan. “And we plan on being here, every Memorial Day weekend you can find us here.”

The memorial resonates with veterans and visitors alike.

“I don’t think anyone can come here and leave without a better understanding and appreciation for the military,” Dixon said. “Then, now and in the future.”