World-renowned sand sculptor Eric Jones has crafted countless memorable creations, but one of his next projects might be his most impactful yet.
Jones, an Allegany County native, will sculpt a tribute to Scio Medal of Honor recipient Jason L. Dunham that will be featured during the America 250 commemoration in Belmont’s Park Circle on July 4.
The Belmont 250th Celebration Committee on June 24 announced a fundraising campaign to support the creation of the sand sculpture.
“Before moving forward with the project, members of the Belmont 250th Celebration Committee respectfully sought and received permission from the parents of Corporal Jason L. Dunham to honor their son’s legacy through this special tribute,” the committee stated.
“The committee is grateful for their support and trust in helping commemorate a local hero whose courage and sacrifice continue to inspire Americans across the nation. Deb Dunham has graciously agreed to say a few words during the park ceremony following the All County Veterans Parade at 3:30 on July 4th.”
The committee is seeking community support to raise $3,000 to fund the sculpture. Businesses, organizations, and individual donors are invited to participate through sponsorships and donations. Donors will be recognized on a commemorative sign displayed near the sculpture during the celebration.
“This tribute represents the values of patriotism, service, sacrifice, and community that define both our nation and our county,” said Shannon Harding, Chair of the Belmont 250th Celebration Committee. “We hope residents, businesses, veterans organizations, and community supporters will join us in making this meaningful project possible.”
How to support Jason Dunham America 250 sculpture
Sponsorship opportunities include:
Donations may be made via Venmo at venmo.com/u/Shanharding716
Checks may be made payable to Eric Jones. Arrangements for pickup can be made by contacting Shannon Harding.
For more information or to make a donation, contact Harding of the Belmont 250th Celebration Committee at 716-909-2601.
Dunham’s sacrifice was subject of 2025 documentary
Cpl. Jason Dunham was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for selflessly saving the lives of fellow Marines during the Iraq War. A documentary about Dunham and his lasting impact on his Marine comrades, “The Gift” premiered in early 2025 on Prime Video, Apple TV+ and other platforms.
Filmmaker David Kniess, a Navy veteran, met Dunham by chance during a flight in 2002 and quickly struck up a conversation with the young Marine. He eventually connected with Dunham’s parents in the wake of Dunham’s death and forged a friendship that continues today.
Kniess debuted a condensed version of the documentary in 2022 to family, friends and participants in the third annual Jason Dunham Memorial Golf Tournament at Wellsville’s David A. Howe Public Library. “The Gift” went on to score a handful of awards on the film festival circuit in 2023 before its wider release.
This article originally appeared on The Evening Tribune: Belmont plans special tribute to Jason Dunham at July 4 America 250 event
Reporting by Chris Potter, Hornell Evening Tribune / The Evening Tribune
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Chris Potter, Hornell Evening Tribune | USA TODAY Network
