OPEN LETTER
18 February, 2008
History of the Idea
In 2006 two Utah men, unknown to each other at the time but sharing a common passion for preserving freedom and honoring the Utah military, each envisioned a monument that would inspire citizens to grasp the well known phrase that “freedom is never free”.
These two men, Tony Galvez a Gold Star Dad whose son Adam was killed in Iraq and Scott Trudo a store manager for WalMart, each approached Paul Swenson for assistance and advice. Paul is well known both within Utah and nationally as an ardent patriot and supporter of great memorials that honor freedom. Paul put the two men and their idea together with some other influential people in the state and said, “you have our support, lets get it built”.
Where to Put It
This monument needs to have state-wide support and be located in a place that has state-wide recognition. Many locations will work. It needs to be in a spot that has high foot traffic from teens and youth. Several locations have been proposed and soon one will be recommended as the first choice.
Design Guidelines
• Celebrate freedom.
• Educate youth not associated with the military to experience a love for freedom and an awareness of their opportunities to preserve it, and a respect for those who defend it.
• Honor current and past Utah military members with emphasis on the current war on terrorism.
Artistic Statement
The cost of freedom is paid in many ways. Realities of war invade our lives and threaten the freedom we cherish. There are those among us who choose to fight when such is called for, many of whom pay for freedom with their very lives. For this sacrifice we all suffer and we all remember.
Monoliths built on solid foundations represent stability and enduring freedom. Etched into these granite columns lies their story of commitment to duty, to love of family, to respect for country, and to freedom. Bronze figures bring a human feeling to the monument. This design relies on the timeless natural materials of the earth - granite, metal, and glass.
Visitors will be educated, inspired and motivated to consider the cost of freedom, and the price many have paid. Young people will experience a moment of “now I understand”, as they ponder their role in preserving freedom
Proposed Tribute
Since before statehood, Utah’s military has responded to duty’s call. Their family’s encouragement and prayers have followed them at every turn. We pay tribute to their courage, their sacrifice, and their determination to fight for freedom – wherever that fight may take them. As the 21st Century beckons us to an uncertain future rife with the cowardice of terrorism and the tyranny of despots, know that Utah’s military men and women resolve to be defenders of peace. Standing in the defense of freedom is our duty, our privilege, and our sacred honor. Good will prevail. Evil will fail. Peace will permeate the planet, and at every chapter in this saga will stand the valiant men and women of Utah’s military services.
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