PERSIAN GULF TRIBUTE TAKES SHAPE
Wednesday, October 8th, 2008 -- 1:46 PM
Even as thousands of Wisconsin soldiers get ready to head back to the Middle East, a group continues their efforts to develop a tribute to veterans of Persian Gulf Wars.Celeste Kaufman of Fairchild lost a son in Iraq. She is working on the tribute to honor veterans of the numerous Middle Eastern conflicts dating back to operation Desert Storm.
Last week was the deadline for artists to submit designs.
"The artists' submissions are in. We're going to pick a panel of judges from various backgrounds," Kaufman explains. "The Persian Gulf Committee will recommend one entry to the Highground's Board of Directors for approval."
The committee requested designs that depicted the conditions soldiers experienced. Sand, improvised explosive devices and humvees were all recommended.
They also wanted an amphitheatre that could be used for educational presentations.
"When they have (students) come for educational things, we've even thought of having a projection on the wall."
The committee is still looking for members; especially veterans of the wars from around the state.
If all goes well, construction of the tribute could come in 2010. Depending on the design, it could cost between $300,000 to $400,000.
The committee will meet next on October 25th at 10:30 a.m. at the Highground.
[url=http://www.thehighground.org]The Highground[/url]
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