Vern and Imogene Cark live on Kemp Bridge Road in Acworth, Ga., just off Highway 41.It used to be a somewhat isolated road until a Super Wal-Mart opened on the other side of 41. Now hundreds of cars are in and out every day. A large banner in the Clark's yard reads,” Pray For Our Heroes and Thank Them.” and two smaller ones list the number of causalities, one reading,"3/11 victim toll 2752, the other one updated several times a week tracks the number of our troops killed in Iraq. 300 small American flags have the names of our troops killed in Iraq, with a connection to Georgia. Many more small flags have been placed by passers-by and visitors from all parts of the country.
"Politics or the president doesn't matter" said Vern Clark.” The men and women dying in Iraq are the ones who matter." “The people leave notes, wine and flowers all the time. We couldn't take it down if we wanted to."
Acworth Mayor Tommy Allgoode said the yard is an inspiration to him and a proud part of Acworth's landscape.” I ride by it every day. It's a reminder to me and the community of the sacrifices that are made for us. Every time I'm in the car with someone, and we see it, they always comment on what a powerful statement it makes.
Vern served in the Gulf war and his daughter served in the military." War changes you. It changed Vern. I don't care who you voted for or who you will vote for, I just care that you care about these soldiers.” said Imogene.
The Clarks knew that had made a public statement when they held a Memorial Day cookout for some of their friends. The decorations had only been up a few days. "We had about 70 people come to the party and 20 or 30 we didn't know.” Vern Clark said. They just stopped by to say thanks, and we invited them to stay. We had people come by and bring us wine that didn't want to bother us at the party, but please take this.
A few people have left less than flattering notes, and people have pulled up in the yard and asked: why? It's a question the Clarks welcome. They just want to honor our Heroes who are fighting, and dying for all of us who are safe at home. They want us to say thank you.
