The memorial was designed by Wayne J. Sarapata, a long-time member and former Chairman of the Chesapeake Mayor's Commission on Veterans Affairs. With the artistic assistance of Ms. Tami Koletski of Chesapeake, a conceptual drawing was made and given to Retnauer Designs Associates and Moffat and Nichols Engineering who provided the architectural and engineering expertise needed to finalize the plans. Along with many generous businesses and individuals, there were numerous Commission members whose efforts were pivotal to making the dream a reality. Most noteworthy were the efforts of such men as Ray Hurst, Al Horton, and Craig Vance; all volunteers and 100% patriots.