RALEIGH, N.C., May 19, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A groundbreaking for the SECU Memorial Walkway took place today aboard one of the most decorated ships of World War II, the USS Battleship NORTH CAROLINA. Representatives from the SECU Foundation and State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) gathered with Battleship officials, state and community leaders for the special event in Wilmington. SECU Foundation Board Chair Jim Johnson spoke briefly to guests and supporters before participating in a ceremonial “cutting of the teak,” officially marking the start of the Walkway’s construction. A $3 million grant was provided by the member-funded SECU Foundation for the project. The SECU Memorial Walkway will honor the legacy of North Carolina’s iconic landmark and pay tribute to all military personnel.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0db738e0-a7a1-49d3-aab9-1e04cbb5e278
“The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA is enthusiastic about the start of the project. We have worked diligently and efficiently to bring it to fruition,” states Captain Terry Bragg, Executive Director for the Battleship. “It is a momentous day for us and it’s because of the support of members of State Employees’ Credit Union that we will be able to keep the Battleship here for future generations.”
Jim Johnson notes, “The SECU Memorial Walkway will enhance the experience for all those who visit our state’s World War II Memorial. Through their Foundation, SECU members are proud to show support for a project that will honor the men and women of our military and bring greater awareness to the historical significance of this great ship for many years to come.”
About SECU and the SECU Foundation
A not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members, SECU has been providing employees of the State of North Carolina and their families with consumer financial services for nearly 79 years. The Credit Union also offers a diversified line of financial advisory services including retirement and education planning, tax preparation, insurance, trust and estate planning services, and investments through its partners and affiliated entities. SECU serves 2 million members through 255 branch offices, over 1,100 ATMs, 24/7 Member Services via phone and a website, www.ncsecu.org. The SECU Foundation, a 501c (3) charitable organization funded solely by the contributions of SECU members, promotes local community development in North Carolina primarily through high impact projects in the areas of housing, education, healthcare and human services.