POST FALLS - Ever since the veterans' memorial was built at Evergreen Cemetery about 10 years ago, Gary Schneidmiller thought a flag memorial would complement it nicely.

The idea became reality on Sunday when the granite memorial built on behalf of the Schneidmiller family and Schneidmiller Family Foundation to fly flags representing each branch of the military and the United States was dedicated to the city.

"This is the perfect bookend to honor the 500 veterans in this cemetery," said Schneidmiller, owner and broker of Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty.

The memorial was built in honor of Schneidmiller's father, Manuel, who served in the Marines during World War II and retired as a lieutenant colonel.

Gladys Schneidmiller, the widow of Manuel, presented the American flag to the Post Falls Police Honor Guard. It was the first flag to be raised at the memorial, followed by the flags representing each branch of the military.

Manuel, a long-time Post Falls resident, volunteered for service in 1941 the day after America declared war on Japan. He served four years of active duty and eight years of reserved service. He was in the 2nd Marine Amphibian Battalion, also known as the "Alligator Marines."

Manuel started in Samoa and landed on Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian and Iwo Jima.

Dave Fair, Post Falls parks and recreation director, said the memorial is another example of how the Schneidmiller family has given back to the community.

"This is what sets Post Falls apart," Fair said. "As a department, we receive support from the community, and this is a big example of that."

The memorial was designed by the city's parks department.

Mayor Clay Larkin proclaimed Sept. 9, 2012, as Manuel Schneidmiller Day in Post Falls and presented Gary and Gladys a copy of the proclamation. The proclamation was for Manuel's service to the community and the country and stated that the city accepts the flag memorial with "profound gratitude."

"What a symbol for our veterans," Larkin said.