April Dogman Article

Submitted by Dave Broeker, to Dennis Herrick, Dogman Editor

Posted on the VDHA and 635^th Website on 03/16/03 to inform the public because of limited time until the event.

Peoria’s Wildlife Prairie State Park

War Dog Memorial Sculpture Dedication

What a surprise to open my Dogman issue, last night, and see that a War Dog Memorial Dedication was going to happen in my own town of Peoria, Illinois!

I am referring to the event listed at the bottom of the front page of the February Issue of the Dogman, named "Memorial Day in Peoria to unveil War Dog Sculpture", by Dave Keeton. The event is scheduled for May 31st, 2003, at 1:30 p.m. at Wildlife Prairie State Park, located just West of Peoria, Illinois.

I know Mr. William Rutherford recently donated the beautiful Wildlife Prairie State Park to the State of Illinois. I called and talked with him, and volunteered to assist him in any way I could, both as the Webmaster for the VDHA, and as the Unit Director for the 635th SPS. He seemed very pleased to have the support of the VDHA and see us get involved. He invited me and my wife, Pat, out to Wildlife Prairie State Park, Saturday, for a personal viewing of the statue and to discuss having the VDHA and 635th SPS being represented at the event.

Upon our arrival, Mr. Rutherford immediately honored us with a personal viewing of the gorgeous, full life scale, 2 piece bronze sculpture, that was meticulously detailed in every way.

I took several digital photos of the sculpture, to share, which are posted at http://www.635thk9.com/wildlife04.htm .

The sculpture is “resting” on a padded trailer awaiting slight modifications so that it can be permanently installed. The pictures do not do it justice, but it does show the beauty and many details of the fantastic workmanship.

We had a bite to eat while we met with other park officials to discuss the celebration. Here is the agenda:

Subject: War Dog Memorial Dedication at Wildlife Prairie State Park

Date: Saturday - May 31, 2003

Time: 13:30 hrs

Location: Wildlife Prairie State Park

10 miles West of Peoria, Illinois

I-74, exit 82

The Sculpture itself is a 2 piece, life sized bronze statue of a soldier with his K-9 (German Shepherd).  It will be on permanent display at the Park.

It was decided to drop any reference to “Memorial Day”, because the date of May 31^st was MOST important and there seemed to be some confusion when “Memorial Day” was referenced.

All Veterans, current service men/women, and their families will receive FREE admission to the Park, Saturday and Sunday, for the celebration and full use of the park.

It was important that announcements of this event should include Wildlife Prairie State Park amenities which might assist park visitors in making their attendance more enjoyable.

Overnight RV parking will be allowed.  Bathrooms are available, however they have NO water/electrical hookups or dump stations. They do have potable water sources available throughout the Park.

They do have limited lodging available at the park. (to see it, visit - www.wildlifeprairiestatepark.org )

Research will reveal whether or not we can expect a “helicopter fly-over”, suggested by Dave Broeker.

They are still working on the plans for entertainment during this day.

Food will be available at the Memorial Dedication area as well as in other areas of the Park.

An outstanding Sunday Brunch will be available called “Sunday Brunch at the Prairie”.

This park boasts 1900 acres with many excellent free fishing holes. Bring your Pole!

(An Illinois fishing license is required and is available at the park).

Mr. Rutherford also said he would like nothing better than to see the Color Guard march in at the beginning of the ceremonies, followed by military dog handlers and their dogs on leash. I'm truly hoping that there are a few "old dawgs" around, like myself, that live within easy commuting distance of Peoria, that might care to attend.

I asked Mr. Rutherford specifically, if this included all dogs and handlers of the Vietnam era. He was adamant that this invitation include all dog handlers and their families from all branches of U.S. Military Service who served during the Vietnam era, Korean War, WWII, etc., or are on active duty. He said this is all about , in his words, "Saying Thanks!"

I told him I would be proud and happy to do whatever he might want or need, in preparation for the event, or at the event.

It also just so happens that my wife, Pat, graduated with Bill Jr. and she has known several of the employees of the park or their families for many years.

I’m thankful for the opportunity to participate in an event like this, and that the ceremony is within 20 miles of my home.

I will be posting updated information, often, on the Websites and Bulletin Boards concerning this event, because this Dedication is off to a wonderful start and the date is approaching fast.

If you are interested and would like more information, please contact me, Dave Broeker, at dbroeker@grics.net or phone me at 309-347-2125.