COURIER VOLUME: 03
FOURTH QUARTER
ISSUE: 04
AN EL PASO COUNTY PUBLICATION
A New Bell: Honoring Service in El Paso County Back in November, our community joined people across the nation in recognizing two meaningful observances: the 250th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps and Veterans Day. These commemorations give us an important opportunity each year to reflect on the service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment of the men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform. They also remind us how fortunate we are to live in a region shaped by a deep military heritage and strengthened every day by the Veterans and families who call El Paso County home. El Paso County was honored to participate once again in the annual Veterans Day Parade in downtown Colorado Springs, celebrating those who have defended our lives and liberty. And on Tuesday, November 11, we joined communities across the country in observing the Veterans Day holiday, a solemn moment to pause and express our gratitude to those who served. While these occasions come only once a year, our appreciation for Veterans continues every day, and we remain committed to supporting them however we can. That commitment is reflected in one of El Paso County’s Core Values: Service. For us, service means more than fulfilling internal goals or organizational standards, it means doing our part to make life better for the residents who rely on us. We aim to demonstrate collaboration, accountability, transparency, and trust in everything we do, whether it’s maintaining roads, supporting families, or helping Veterans access the benefits they’ve earned. These values guide our work because they reflect the expectations and needs of the people we serve.
During a special ceremony at the November 18 Board of County Commissioners meeting, that spirit of service took on a powerful new symbol as we unveiled a new Honor Bell dedicated to Colorado’s Veterans. Following the meeting, El Paso County introduced the bell, which will soon be placed at the Pikes Peak National Cemetery. The Honor Bell is crafted with extraordinary care and tuned to convey a sense of dignity and solemn reflection. Each resonant toll is meant to honor the life of a Veteran, serving as a meaningful gesture of respect for the courage and sacrifice of those who answered the call to serve. Once installed at the cemetery, the Honor Bell will be available to toll during interment and memorial services at no cost to families. It will serve as a lasting tribute and an added measure of honor for the loved ones who gather to say goodbye. For families navigating the sometimes complex process of securing burial benefits, support is close at hand. The El Paso County Division of Veterans Services provides free, knowledgeable assistance to Veterans and their families, including help blank
securing VA benefits, arranging burial honors, and connecting with other resources. Residents can learn more or reach out for assistance by visiting veterans.elpasoco.com. We encourage community members— whether you are a Veteran, a family member, or simply someone who wants to show support—to stay connected with future ceremonies and opportunities to honor those who served. As the Honor Bell begins its role at Pikes Peak National Cemetery, we hope it becomes a meaningful place for residents to gather, reflect, and pay tribute. This bell is more than a symbol; it is a shared reminder that every act of service shapes our community. And in El Paso County, we will continue to honor that legacy, not only through ceremonies and commemorations, but through our daily efforts to serve the region with integrity, compassion, and respect. To learn more about the Honor Bell and its mission, visit honorbell.org.
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