But now the Medal of Honor Grove's once-manicured grounds have become an eyesore. Some monuments are dirty, benches are broken, trees have fallen, and weeds run rampant, sometimes obscuring commemorative plaques.
The site is "a desecration," declared State Sen. Andrew E. Dinniman (D., Chester). "I really don't think that's too strong a word."
Michael Di Yeso, president of the 60-year-old educational organization, agrees the grove is in bad shape but says the economy, not any disrespect for veterans, is the cause.
"We want to be proud of it," he said, welcoming Dinniman's help.
Getting the site back to its intended state seems to depend on the success of a blitzkrieg of volunteers Dinniman and the foundation have lined up during the next few months.
But long-term upkeep remains a question.
The foundation says one answer might be to reduce the site's size and even sell some land, an idea that is not on the table now but that has stirred controversy before.
"We are first and foremost an educational institution," said Di Yeso, noting that 4,000 people attended civics classes at the 10-building campus last year.
The Freedoms Foundation was created in 1949; its founders included investment broker E.F. Hutton. Its mission - promoting the "ideals and principles of a free society" - remains steadfast, Di Yeso said.
During the foundation's heyday, it maintained a high profile, with frequent seminars, soirees, and awards ceremonies. Former President Dwight D. Eisenhower chaired the board for nearly 20 years.
The foundation, which has 28 chapters across the nation, has continued its practice of recognizing civic, business, and educational excellence, Di Yeso said. Since 1949, it has honored more than 40,000 people, including Winston Churchill, J. Edgar Hoover, and John Glenn.
