Simmons Hanly Conroy Contribution Propels Illinois Veterans’ Memorial

Jayne and John Simmons, Founder of Simmons Hanly Conroy, Support National Memorial of Military Ascent

Clayton, MO - The National Memorial of Military Ascent (NMMA) received a major boost at its Veterans Day fundraiser when Jayne and John Simmons, founder and chairman of Simmons Hanly Conroy, announced a $2.5 million donation to the memorial. This substantial contribution underscores the Simmons law firm's unwavering commitment to honoring veterans and supporting their legacy.

"When Mike shared his plans for this memorial with me, it hit me really deep," John explained. "As a combat engineer, I understood the symbolic power of what we're building in Grafton, Illinois."

The announcement was made at Café Napoli in Clayton, Missouri, where John Simmons addressed veterans, community members, and supporters gathered to honor those who have served. The evening featured live music, a gourmet meal prepared by renowned Chef Lasse Sorensen, and heartfelt moments honoring WWII veterans in attendance.

"When the Navy wins a successful engagement, America wins. When the Army is successful in battle, America wins. When our Air Force, Marine, and Coast Guard brothers and sisters accomplish their mission, our nation is stronger," John said. "The branches of our military don't compete - they complement each other. The same is true of Grafton and Alton."

A Lasting Tribute to U.S. Military Service

Set against the limestone bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, the NMMA will feature life-sized bronze statues of U.S. Army Rangers, recreating their scaling of the cliffs of Point Du Hac during the 1944 D-Day landings at Omaha Beach.

"This memorial holds deep meaning for my family and me," John added. "The National Memorial of Military Ascent will be a place where future generations can learn about the true cost of freedom and the courage of our veterans. We are honored to be part of this project and hope our contribution will inspire others to support this cause."

Alongside these iconic statues, the memorial complex will include interactive exhibits, a museum, and spaces for reflection, fostering a deeper connection to U.S. military history for generations to come.

Mayor Michael Morrow, a retired colonel and co-chair of the NMMA, praised the Simmons family's generosity. "John and Jayne's extraordinary contribution represents a huge step toward realizing our vision for this national tribute to veterans. Their dedication to our veterans is an inspiration and will help bring this project to completion."

Simmons Hanly Conroy Gives Back to Veterans & the Community

Simmons Hanly Conroy is dedicated to supporting veterans, both in the courtroom and beyond. The firm's attorneys and staff regularly contribute time and resources to veterans' organizations, including Disabled American Veterans, the Joshua Chamberlain Society in St. Louis, the Wounded Warrior Project, Stand Down St. Louis, and the Madison County Veterans' Treatment Court.

These efforts reflect Simmons Hanly Conroy's ongoing mission to advocate for those who have served, including the many veterans who face mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure during their service or after.

Beyond veteran support, Simmons Hanly Conroy has a deep tradition of giving back to the community. Over the years, the firm has donated more than $31 million to charitable causes across the nation. In addition to their work with veterans' groups, they are proud supporters of the American Cancer Society, the American Lung Association, the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Boys and Girls Club, and The United Way.

Our mesothelioma law firm sponsors the Miles for Meso race and fun walk, which alone has raised nearly $1 million for mesothelioma research and asbestos awareness groups, helping families impacted by this disease nationwide.

For more information on the National Memorial of Military Ascent or to support the project, visit graftonmemorial.org.