Lafayette, CA, October 1, 2024 – The Lafayette Hillside Memorial (LHM) has secured its future thanks to a generous donation of the land it occupies.
The 1.9-acre lot on Thompson Road and a ¾-acre portion off Oak Hill Road, home to the Memorial’s many symbolic crosses, will be transferred to the LHM Board of Directors by Lara and Steve Dutto, local residents who purchased the land in 2023 under Oak Hill Place LLC.
The Duttos, long-time supporters of the Memorial, have already recorded an easement to protect the site while the title transfer is finalized. The donation ensures that the LHM Board will have full autonomy over the memorial’s future.
The community has shown overwhelming support for preserving the Memorial. A survey conducted by the Board found that 90% of participants value the Memorial’s significance. Kay James, a Board member, noted that this feedback played a key role in the decision to accept the donation.
The Lafayette Hillside Memorial, established in 2006, serves as a poignant reminder of the American soldiers who died in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Located on a hillside facing Highway 24 and the Lafayette BART station, it consists of hundreds of wooden crosses and other symbols, many placed by families of fallen soldiers.
Former Board member Lara Dutto explained the motivation behind the donation, stating, “Knowing that the change of ownership could have signaled the end of the memorial, our goal has been to ensure the Board of Directors has autonomy to decide the Memorial’s future.”
The LHM requires ongoing community involvement to maintain the site, as the symbols deteriorate and need replacement. Treasurer Mike Munnelly emphasized the importance of volunteer efforts and highlighted upcoming projects, including an Eagle Scout initiative and a daffodil planting event. The next community workday will be held on Veterans Day, November 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
For more information or to volunteer, visit www.lafayettehillsidememorial.org.
