OKLAHOMA VETERANS MEMORIAL

On this veterans day I found it fitting to talk about the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial. Constructed to honor Oklahoma war veterans, the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial is located within the State Capitol Park. Minutes away from downtown Oklahoma City and other popular attractions, the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial is a sight you must see.

Leading the way on the north side of the Oklahoma State Supreme Court is "The Big Guy". Standing 8 1/2 feet tall on a 3 1/2 foot pedestal, his bronze face has the features of a Native American who is wearing the gear of a Vietnam soldier. Behind him are 4 walls with bas relief bronze panels representing World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Respectfully located on the front of each panel are scenes depicting the individual wars. Reverently placed on the back of the walls are the names of the Oklahoma’s killed in action during that particular war.

Flag poles fly the flags of each branch of the Armed Forces and the Oklahoma State flag. "Old Glory" is honorably placed in the center. On December 7, 1999, a memorial to the USS Oklahoma was unveiled and is dedicated to those killed at Pearl Harbor.

The "Eternal Flame" is aligned with "The Big Guy" and the center of the south side entrance of the Oklahoma State Capitol, humbly reminding our leaders that "we will never forget." The State of Oklahoma donated the land to the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial. Its construction was funded by donations from around the country.

To find out more and to plan your visit to the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial you can visit http://oklahomaveteransmemorial.us