City of Goldsboro to Remove Freedom Tree Due to Safety Concerns

The City of Goldsboro has contracted with a local tree removal service to remove the historic Freedom Tree due to advanced disease and public safety concerns. Weather permitting, the removal is scheduled to take place this week. For safety, one lane of traffic in the area will be temporarily closed during the removal process.

Planted in 1972 by Mayor Tommy Gibson to honor Captain Peter Cleary, who was declared Missing in Action after his plane was shot down over Vietnam, the Freedom Tree has long stood as a living tribute to Captain Cleary and all U.S. military personnel listed as POW/MIA. The willow oak has symbolized remembrance, hope, and sacrifice for more than five decades.

Over the past five years, the City has invested in pruning and fertilization to prolong the tree’s life. However, recent assessments by certified arborists from NC State University and Lanier Tree Services determined the tree is in rapid decline due to age, mistletoe, deadwood and lichen. Large, dead limbs now pose a serious hazard to pedestrians and vehicles in the surrounding area.

In recognition of the tree’s significance, efforts will be made to collect and preserve portions of the trunk for potential memorial pieces honoring Captain Cleary. The Cleary and Gibson families have been consulted and remain involved in these plans.

Following removal, the tree stump will be ground out to prepare the site for future planting. While saplings from the original Freedom Tree are currently growing, their viability is not yet guaranteed. The City is exploring alternate options, including planting a new tree, installing educational signage, and a memorial garden space.

In partnership with the Evergreen Garden Club, the City will also relocate the Blue Star Memorial marker to the Freedom Tree site, and a new Gold Star Memorial marker will be added. The Blue and Gold Star Memorial program is organized by the National Council of State Garden Clubs to honor military men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces. Gold Star markers specifically honor families who have lost loved ones serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

The City of Goldsboro acknowledges the emotional significance of the Freedom Tree and is committed to preserving the memory of Captain Cleary and all those it represents.