MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Manatee County unveiled two new dedications for the community to remember and honor Gold Star families and their loved ones who have fought for our freedom.

Stefenie Hernandez lost her son, Patrick L. Lay II, in August 2011.

He served as an Army Specialist and died in Afghanistan. He was an infantryman with the 10th Mountain Division.

“As the weeks, months, and now years have passed, I’ve come to truly grasp what our freedom has cost. I am humbled and overwhelmed—not only by my family’s loss, but by the sacrifices of so many others,” she said.

Other Gold Star families in the room and community members stood to honor and support Stefenie.

Now, the county has invested in a new way to never forget—with a highway marker called the “Gold Star Families Memorial Highway,” which is installed on Buckeye Road.

“I think it’ll be a great reminder on the highways, as people pass by, of the sacrifices that others have made. It brings it more to the forefront for them,” she explained.

And with a new kiosk, people will be able to search for fallen heroes who served in any of the wars and were born in Manatee County.

“What a meaningful and powerful way to say we honor and remember the ultimate sacrifice the men and women made for our freedom,” she said.

The kiosk will be permanently placed in the lobby of the Manatee County Administration Building.

With the touchscreen, Stefenie was able to search for her son and know that members of the community will learn about him and others who have died for our country.