First Horizon Foundation serves as the title sponsor for Tennessee’s first Lone Sailor Monument as the community celebrates the United States Navy’s 251st birthday.
MEMPHIS, Tenn., Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The City of Millington, in partnership with First Horizon Foundation, Navy League Memphis and the Lone Sailor Monument Committee, celebrated a historic milestone October 13, 2026, with the ceremonial groundbreaking for Tennessee’s first Lone Sailor Monument.
The announcement marks a major achievement for the project, with the First Horizon Foundation’s contribution bringing the fundraising effort to the amount needed to fully fund the monument itself.
Held on the U.S. Navy’s 251st birthday at 5172 Navy Road, the groundbreaking brought together representatives from the City of Millington, Naval Support Activity Mid-South, Navy League Memphis, First Horizon Foundation, military veterans, community leaders and project supporters to commemorate the occasion.
City of Millington Mayor, Larry Dagen said: “This is a historic day for Millington and for the generations of Sailors who have called this community home. For decades, the Navy has been woven into the fabric of our City, and today we are taking an important step toward honoring that legacy. We are especially grateful to First Horizon Foundation for its extraordinary generosity and commitment to making this monument a reality. This project is a testament to what we can accomplish when our community comes together.”
The Lone Sailor Monument will be the first of its kind in Tennessee and will serve as a permanent tribute to the men and women who have served, are currently serving and will serve in the U.S. Navy. The monument will also recognize Millington’s longstanding relationship with the Navy and the important role Naval Support Activity Mid-South continues to play in the community.
City of Millington City Manager, Frankie Dakin stated: “Today represents more than the beginning of construction. It represents the dedication, collaboration and a shared commitment to honoring our military heritage. Thanks to the generosity of First Horizon Foundation and the tireless work of Navy League Memphis, the Lone Sailor Monument Committee and our community partners, we have reached a major financial milestone. We look forward to continuing this partnership as we work toward completing a space that will honor our Sailors for generations to come.”
First Horizon Bank Mid-South Regional President, Bo Allen said: “As title sponsor, First Horizon’s role is simple: to help turn a shared vision into a permanent place of gratitude. This plaza will host reenlistments, promotions, retirements and family moments that become part of Millington’s story. We’re humbled to play a part in building that home for remembrance and celebration.”
The ceremony included the Presentation of Colors by Millington Central Middle High School Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) cadets, the National Anthem sung by Petty Officer First Class Melodie Bradley, remarks from City and Navy representatives, recognition of First Horizon Foundation as title sponsor and a ceremonial turning of the dirt.
The groundbreaking marks an important step toward establishing a permanent landmark celebrating Millington’s military heritage. While funding for the monument itself has been secured, project partners will continue working to advance the development of the surrounding memorial plaza.
For more information on the Lone Sailor Monument, visit www.navyleaguememphis.org.
About the Lone Sailor Monument
The Lone Sailor Monument is a nationally recognized symbol honoring the men and women who have served, are serving or will serve in the United States Navy. Millington’s monument will be the first in Tennessee, further strengthening the community’s historic connection to the Navy and Naval Support Activity Mid-South.
About the First Horizon Foundation
First Horizon Foundation is the private charitable foundation of First Horizon Corporation. Founded in 1993, the Foundation has donated more than $200 million to meet community needs. Grants from the Foundation support the following impact areas: Arts & Culture, Education & Leadership, Environment, Financial Literacy, and Health & Human Services. More information is available at www.firsthorizonfoundation.com.
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SOURCE First Horizon Foundation
