NEW YORK STATE MISSING PERSONS REMEMBRANCE

Several years ago, we learned of an effort in Ireland to erect a monument for missing persons. We were honored with an invitation to participate in the dedication of their memorial in Kilkenny, Ireland in May of 2002. Our enthusiasm over what was accomplished in Ireland inspired us to pursue the construction of a monument for missing persons in New York State, and possibly the United States.

While developing the concept of a monument to missing persons, we struggled over how it should be identified. The word memorial, usually dedicated to the deceased, did not seem appropriate. The name chosen for the monument is “NYS Missing Persons Remembrance”.

The monument, the first of its kind in the US, will serve as a meeting place where families can come to reflect, remember, and begin a healing process. In addition, the structure will serve to increase public awareness about the magnitude of the missing person problem in New York State.

In order to promote the concept of a monument in NYS, we met with the Director of Special Projects from the Governor’s Office, NYS Office of General Services Commissioner, and OGS Deputy Director. The idea was warmly accepted, and for the past four years we have been working with an architect and NYS OGS to develop a unique design and locate an appropriate site. NYS OGS was a moving force behind several other monuments, including the spectacular World War ll monument, unveiled at the Empire Plaza in May 2002.

The Remembrance stands on the southeast corner of Madison and South Swan Streets as part of the Empire State Plaza in Albany, NY. Reached by a curving concrete path, the Remembrance is composed of a 10 ft square granite base surmounted by a 20 ft tall stainless steel sculptural frame detailed with a machine-ground finish. Engraved on the polished face of the granite base is, "AS A SYMBOL OF OUR ETERNAL HOPE MAY THIS FLAME LIGHT THEIR WAY HOME." The top of the sculpture supports an eternal flame, literally and figuratively providing the light home.

Groundbreaking was on Missing Persons Day, Thursday, April 6, 2006 .

On Tuesday October 3, 2006 an evening candlelight ceremony was held to dedicate the Remembrance.

Doug and Mary Lyall
Co-founders of the Center for HOPE