Monday, May 28, 2012

Memorial Day 2012















Memorial Day 2012 - The 107th Infantry Memorial by Karl Lllava in Central Park at 67th street and Fifth Avenue is adorned with wreaths. The memorial is dedicated to the men who served in the 107th New York Infantry Regiment during World War I. The memorial depicts seven larger-than-life-sized men; the one to the far right carrying two Mill bombs, while supporting the wounded soldier next to him. To his right another infantryman rushes towards the enemy positions, while the helmetless squad leader and another soldier are approaching the enemy with bayonets fixed. To the far left, one soldier is holding a mortally wounded soldier, keeping him on his feet. (Photo: Geoffrey Croft/NYC Park Advocates) Click on image to enlarge.

The sculpture - made of bronze with a granite base - was dedicated on September 29, 1927. Sculptor Karl Illava (1889 - 1954) served as a sergeant in the 107th during WW I. He used his own hands as models for the soldiers' hands.

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. - Geoffrey Croft

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