The Gold Star Memorial Statue pictured in its crate before going in at Veterans Memorial Park in the VIllage of Rothschild. (Photo courtesy of American Legion Post 492)
ROTHSCHILD, WI (WSAU) — A statue honoring Gold Star families will be debuted this weekend.
A statue that has been 5 years in the making will get a ceremonial unveiling on Sunday, September 27th. The Gold Star Memorial statue will stand in Veterans Memorial Park in Rothschild on Grand Avenue next to the Village Hall through a project put together by American Legion Post 492. The statue recognizes Gold Star families who have lost a family member due to or because of U.S. approved military action in a hostile zone.
A closeup of the face of the Gold Star Family Statue that will stand in Veterans Memorial Park in the Village of Rothschild. (Photo courtesy of American Legion Post 492)
The bronze statue depicts a Mother who just received a telegram that she has lost a child to war. She is in shock; she steadies herself by holding onto a table, looking out into the distance, remembering, tears flowing. The statue was made by sculptor Andrew Chernak a Veteran himself who is well-known for his figurines in the Gettysburg Museum, sculptures in Arlington, and more.
The founder and inspiration of Veteran’s Park, Joe Kelbley, a Vietnam Veteran of the U.S. Army, has the dream to complete the park in his lifetime. Post 492 hopes to fulfill Joe’s vision, so they prioritized the Gold Star Family Statue in an effort to honor Joe’s dedication to honor Veterans and Families alike. Joe will provide the opening and closing prayers at the ceremonial unveiling.
The unveiling ceremony will begin at 2 p.m. on Sunday, also Gold Star Families Day, with a welcome beforehand at 1 p.m. The community and Gold Star Mothers and Families are invited to attend the Unveiling of the Gold Star Mothers Memorial Statue, to recognize families of the Fallen.
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