OGS to Host Unveiling of Combat Infantry Badge Marker at World War II Monument

• by New York State Office of General Services

What: OGS and the Combat Infantrymen's Association host the New York State World War II Veterans Combat Infantry Badge Dedication Ceremony

Where: Huxley Theater (1st Floor), New York State Museum

When: December 7, 2009 at Noon

This event features a program sponsored by the Combat Infantryman's Association as the Combat Infantry Badge Marker at the New York State World War II memorial is formally dedicated.

A photo opportunity at the memorial will follow the program.

About the World War II Memorial

The World War II monument is located on the south side of Madison Avenue adjacent to the Cultural Education Complex. It features curved granite copings that encircle the right half of the pool which are inscribed with the significant dates, places, and battles that occurred in the European theater, such as the Invasion of Normandy (D-Day) and the Battle of the Bulge. The left half of the monument represents the Pacific theater, including Pearl Harbor, the Battle of Midway, and Iwo Jima.

Two large granite panels serve to divide the pool in half and commemorate those who served and the ideals that inspired them. The north panel includes Franklin Delano Roosevelt's Four Freedoms. Additionally, enameled bronze plaques depict the ribbons of the six primary World War II service medals, and every campaign fought is inscribed on the panel. The south panel includes quotes from General Douglas MacArthur and General Dwight D. Eisenhower.

A stainless steel eagle serves as a powerful focal point at the center of the pool. Created by Robert Eccleston and cast at the Tallix Foundry in Beacon, New York, this icon is mounted atop a pedestal, onto which the dedication is inscribed.

The walkway around the pool is constructed of granite slabs, edged with cobblestone to show the rough, narrow road traveled during the war. Surrounding the walkway are tall arborvitae hedges in the shape of a wreath, signifying the heroism and triumph of the war and the grief. Seven flags flank the south wall of hedges, representing the United States, New York State, and the five branches of the Armed Forces.

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