SPRINGFIELD, IL (IRN) - Hopes are high that a monument to Purple Heart recipients will take its place alongside other war memorials at Springfield’s Oak Ridge Cemetery, which is best known as the site of Lincoln’s Tomb.

Officials with the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency and the Military Order of the Purple Heart on Monday signed a public-private agreement for the order to raise money to build the monument, and for the state to assume the care and maintenance of it.

“It will serve as a tribute to those, living and dead, who served our country in a time of war and put our country before self, sacrifice before safety, and courage before caution,” said John Lazell, commander of Chapter 159 of the Order.

Lazell said he expects the fund-raising to last a year or two.