"The Ascent of Heroism" includes seven high and low relief figures swept up in a swirl of wings and feathers.

It was installed upon a 5 ft high solid granite base in the center of a Veterans Circle at Grandview Cemetery in Altoona, Pennsylvania.

For more information about this project click here to read an article in the Altoona Daily Mirror newspaper.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The monument includes five portraits of veterans buried in Grandview from seven American fought wars: The Revolutionary War, the Civil War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the Iraq War.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To the left are photographs of the  6-1/2 ft tall bronze at the foundry just after being given a patina but before wax was applied.  Because of the yellow lighting at the foundry and glare/reflections it is often easier to see the fine detailing before waxing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The following photos were taken after the bronze was given a hot wax.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vice Admiral Michael Bucchi was one of the keynote speakers, along with Senator John Eichellberger, President of the Navy League Dr. Peter Starr, Blair County Commissioner Donna Gority, myself and others.

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Clients presented me with a beautiful clock personally inscribed and dated for this Memorial Day event and dedication.  Every time I look at this lovely gift I will be reminded of this truly incredible experience.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It was an amazing Memorial Day event with open hearts and beautiful blue skies.  The inspiring ceremony included the Honor Guard placing a wreath by the monument, the passing of a riderless horse, a 21 Gun Salute and  Memorial Taps were played.