Memorials for vets of the Korean War, WWII women pilots, Gulf War, Afghanistan and Iraq war vets are in development and planning stages.

A replica of the Liberty Bell can be run and can be heard throughout the grounds. Visitors are encouraged to ring the bell to "Let Freedom Ring."

An Earthen Dove Effigy Mound pays tribute to POWs and MIAs. A 125-foot Gold Star is a living tribute to all families who have ever lost a loved one in war. Both these memorials are lit at night and can be seen for miles.

In 2006, a Meditation Garden was dedicated. There, visitors can reflect and enjoy the surroundings. Meditation stones are available to the public as fundraisers for the garden. The Highground also offers Legacy Stones for those who offer support to the overall facility.

Visitors stroll amidst all these memorials and can look out on some of the most picturesque landscape in the state. There are four miles of hiking trails on the grounds.

The Highground's history will touch anybody with a heart. In 1965, Tom Miller held his mortally-wounded friend on a battlefield in Vietnam and made a vow that his death would not be forgotten.

Miller and several other people who had made similar vows incorporated as the Wisconsin Vietnam Veterans Memorial Project in 1984 and started searching for sites. The present site was selected, and fundraisers from bicycle tours to other events started raising money.

A 70-foot flagpole and lights became the first permanent fixtures. The Wisconsin Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park was dedicated in 1986. The name was later changed to The Highground and tributes to veterans of all conflicts were added.

As a brochure for the park reads, "We seek to have The Highground continue to be a focus of healing for all who comes, regardless of the name of the battle which left the scars."

Great veterans' memorials can be found throughout Wisconsin and the entire nation. This writer has visited many over the years, but few have had the impact of The Highground. The location is one reason. It truly is beautiful. The inclusion of women, Native Americans and others who often have been forgotten in past memorials is another. The statues and other memorials also are done with artistic skill and class.

Events are held throughout the year at The Highground, with the biggest on Memorial Day, July 4 and Veterans Day. But, again, the park is open year around. It is decorated for the holidays at this time of the year.

No federal or state funding are used for The Highground. It is maintained by the non-profit group.