Eternal Sentry – Sioux Falls, SD
N 43° 33.697 W 096° 44.453
14T E 682453 N 4825663
This sculpture stands proudly in the Veterans Memorial Park in Sioux Falls, a memorial to all those who have sacrificed for our country’s freedom.
Waymark Code: WMDMGC
Location: South Dakota, United States
Date Posted: 01/31/2012
Views: 9
This sculpture stands proudly in the Veterans Memorial Park in Sioux Falls, a memorial to all those who have sacrificed for our country’s freedom. The bronze work of art was cast by Dr. John Wightman in 2004 and sponsored by the Disabled American Veterans of Sioux Falls. The text of the marker reads:
“Dedicated to the honor of all who have been called to the service of our country, often at great personal sacrifice. May this sentry always remind us to honor and respect the duty and sacrifices they gave for our freedoms and security. We shall never forget.
“History of the Battlefield Cross. The Battlefield Cross as depicted in this sculpture is a symbolic replacement of a cross on a battlefield for a soldier who has been killed. Made up of the soldier’s rifle with bayonet attached stuck in the ground. Helmet on top, boots at the bottom with dog tags often hanging from the rifle. Its purpose is to show honor and respect for the fallen at the battle site. The practice became common during the American Civil War when soldiers on both sides began to implant a rifle with bayonet into the soil of battlegrounds. A forage cap placed on the top as an impromptu memorial to their comrades. This practice evolved through the Spanish-American War, World War I and II, Korea and Vietnam conflicts to our current wars. It has become a unique cultural symbol. Recognized immediately by American servicemen and women as a solemn solute to the honor of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their countrymen. The equipment may have changed, but the message is eternal.”
The sculpture was dedicated on July 19, 2008 by the Disabled American Veterans, Sioux Falls Arthur H. Muchow Chapter No. 1.
Title: Eternal Sentry
Artist: Dr. John Wightman
Placement Date: cast in 2004; dedicated in 2008
Type of Object: helmet, rifle with bayonet, boots, ammo box
Location: Veterans Memorial Park in Sioux Falls
Material: Bronze
Website: Not listed
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