Alexander Corners Veterans and Pearl Harbor Memorial

The Veterans Memorial Garden at Rhodes Greenhouses was created to honor the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans and to preserve an important part of military history within our community.

One of the central features of the memorial is an M60A3 Main Battle Tank, which was obtained with the help of Representative John McHugh, a longtime supporter of the greenhouse and member of the local community. The tank was provided by Fort Drum and is currently on loan from the United States Army as a static display.

Also displayed at the memorial is a Cobra Helicopter, which was also obtained from Fort Drum, helping create a meaningful tribute to those who served in the armed forces.

While speaking with a member of the Pearl Harbor Survivors' Association, the Rhodes family began exploring the idea of adding another piece to honor that historic group. That vision became Jon Rhodes’ Eagle Scout Project, which helped expand the memorial and further recognize the sacrifices of those who experienced the attack on Pearl Harbor.

The memorial also includes two 16-inch artillery shells from the USS New Jersey, one of the most decorated battleships in U.S. naval history. These historic pieces help connect visitors to the legacy of those who served during times of war.

Today, the Veterans Memorial Garden stands as a place of remembrance and reflection where visitors can honor the courage, sacrifice, and service of American veterans while visiting Rhodes Greenhouses.

M60A3 Main Battle Tank

The M60A3 Main Battle Tank is one of the centerpiece displays of the Veterans Memorial Garden at Rhodes Greenhouses. This historic tank was obtained with the help of Representative John McHugh, who lived in the area and was a supporter of the greenhouse.

The tank was provided by Fort Drum and is currently on loan from the United States Army as a static display. It stands as a tribute to the strength, service, and dedication of the men and women who have served in the U.S. military.

Cobra Helicopter

The Cobra Helicopter displayed at Rhodes Greenhouses was obtained from Fort Drum and stands as an important part of the Veterans Memorial Garden. The helicopter represents the role of military aviation and honors the courage and service of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

The addition of the helicopter and other military displays was inspired in part by conversations with members of the Pearl Harbor Survivors' Association. Wanting to recognize and honor those who experienced the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the Rhodes family worked to expand the memorial.

This effort became Jon Rhodes’ Eagle Scout Project, helping create a space that honors the members of the Central New York Pearl Harbor Survivors Chapter and preserves their legacy for future generations.

Today, the Cobra Helicopter stands alongside other memorial displays as a tribute to the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication of American service members and as a reminder of the historic events that shaped our nation.

USS New Jersey Artillery Shells

Also featured at the memorial are two 16-inch artillery shells from the USS New Jersey, one of the most decorated battleships in United States naval history.

These shells represent the immense firepower once used by the battleship and serve as a reminder of the sailors who served aboard naval vessels during times of war. Displayed alongside the tank and helicopter, they help tell the broader story of American military service across land, air, and sea.

Visit Rhodes Greenhouses

With over 40,000 square feet of growing space, Rhodes Greenhouses offers one of the largest selections of annual flowers in Northern New York. Our team grows many of these plants right here in our greenhouses to ensure they are healthy, strong, and ready to thrive in your garden.

Visit us in Henderson, NY to explore our vibrant annual displays and find the perfect flowers for your garden.

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