The centerpiece of a new veteran’s memorial in Peachtree City is getting the finishing touches on its new coat of paint.

The F-16 fighter jet will later be on display as part of the Veterans Memorial Park at Falcon Field. It is currently “parked” at Clayton International, a Peachtree City company that is painting the aircraft for free. Wednesday morning workers were painting the fuselage, as the wings, elevators and other items had been removed from the aircraft for individual painting.

Clayton International is a company that retrofits and updates old aircraft and helicopters for governments across the world. Clayton is but one of a number of companies that have chipped in to help with the project free of charge.

But there will be a funding need, and some major companies have expressed interest in helping, said local resident Ted Mallory. Mallory retired from the Air Force at the rank of Major General.

Citizens can also help with fund-raising by purchasing a memorial brick to be laid in the plaza to recognize their veteran. To do so, visit www.falconmemorial.com.

Mallory said it has been very gratifying to him to see the community step up to help with the project.

Weather permitting, this week construction will begin in earnest with site prep for the footing and later in the week the pouring of the concrete pad.

The value of the donations for the project has exceeded the $200,000 mark.

The plane was donated to the city some 10 years ago with an eventual plan to display it somehow. It has been on display at airshows and the like but this display will have it permanently mounted in full war regalia. There will also be an informational plaque about the aircraft and a plaque to recognize sponsors.

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