Atheists-In-Foxholes Monument Unveiled

A highlight of the July 4th Lake Hypatia gathering: Veterans in attendance dispel a myth by assembling before the unveiling of the world's first monument honoring "Atheists In Foxholes" and the military contributions of freethinkers.

The monument reads: "In memory of ATHEISTS IN FOXHOLES and the countless FREETHINKERS who have served this country with honor and distinction. Presented by the national FREEDOM FROM RELIGION FOUNDATION with hope that in the future humankind may learn to avoid all war." The monument features the insignia of all U.S. military branches (so that those veterans who never experienced the proverbial foxhole will not feel excluded).

Foundation president Anne Gaylor, who dreamed up the idea of an "Atheists-In-Foxholes" memorial and contributed the wording, poses by the world's first such memorial.

Foundation member and volunteer Bill Teague helped to oversee the construction of the monument, made from Georgia granite.

A side view of the monument.

The Freedom From Religion Foundation's "Atheists-In-Foxholes" monument in its pretty setting in Fearn Park, Lake Hypatia, Alabama.

Veteran "atheists in foxholes" line up to sign the special book which will be kept in the Freethought Hall auditorium to record the names of veteran freethinkers, their military branch and years served.