Donations were immediately given to Coeur d'Alene American Legion Post 14 when the community learned the resting places of two American soldiers are in need of proper military markers.

"The article was done very, very well," Post Adjutant Jerry Staub said Wednesday. "It also resulted in us getting a $1,000 donation from a veteran," along with a pledge of $500 more if needed.

"He actually called me and left a message, I called him back," Staub said. "A real nice gentleman. He brought in the check to us at our next meeting ... When I talked to him on the phone, I was almost brought to tears, and that doesn't happen to me often. I've been a bit emotional about the whole thing."

In a Nov. 9 Press article, it was announced that Post 14 and community partners were working to raise funds to install bronze service markers on the graves of Civil War soldier Joseph A. Phillips, who died March 8, 1913, and World War I soldier Elmer Jess, who died March 5, 1924. Both are interred in Mica Peak Cemetery, a small cemetery in Spokane County a few miles past the state line on Elder Road.

The family of Phillips' great-great-granddaughter Debbie Mitchell of Coeur d'Alene has also stepped up to fund his military marker. They are working on the details, including adding Phillips' wife Harriet's name to the stone.

"My brother, Gale Akers, and I look forward to working with the American Legion and the Mica Peak Cemetery," Mitchell said.

Staub said the cost is still estimated to be $1,000 per marker, but he and Post 14 officials will soon be meeting with Eric English of English Funeral Chapels and they are in discussion with T.J. Harris of Coeur d'Alene Memorial Gardens to configure the details.

"I’d really like to have this done before Memorial Day," Staub said.

He shared his disbelief and appreciation for everyone who has contributed or messaged him about the military marker project for Jess and Phillips.

"It's probably been one of the coolest stories I've been a part of in my life. Everything has just come into place; it's hard to describe. It's just really amazing," he said. "Everybody was in favor of doing it, just one success after another."

Once the markers have been made, the Legion will host a service at the cemetery with military honors for both veterans, including full color guard and presentation of a flag and display box. Staub expects this will take place in the spring, optimally around Memorial Day.