Video Showcases WWII Veterans Plaque's New Site
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX -The road to a permanent home was six years in the making for a World War II veteran's memorial plaque that once called the Memorial Coliseum home. The historic event was captured and is showcased in a video featured online.
The plaque was commissioned in 1954 by the Corpus Christi Chapter of the Gold Star Mothers to honor soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. In 2004, the plaque was removed from the coliseum's exterior façade and displayed at City Hall's rotunda.
In March 2011, city officials broke ground on a new home for the 600-pound bronze plaque at Sherrill Park. The new pedestal and walkway, dedicated in May 2011, were made possible through a $15,000 donation from CPL Retail Energy. They were designed by Chuck Anastos Associates, Inc. and constructed by Alpha Construction.
"This new memorial represents another step in honoring and recognizing the sacrifices of our veterans," said Mayor Joe Adame. "We're very proud of all our veterans and are glad to see the World War II plaque is back on the bayfront for all to see."
The hope is that it and all other monuments at Sherrill Park will be incorporated into the Destination Bayfront planning and development. Destination Bayfront is a Corpus Christi group building public awareness and support for mixed-use public spaces that bring economic benefits.
"CPL is a long-standing energy partner to Coastal Bend residents, and our investment in this memorial honors our past while looking toward Corpus Christi's future," says Jim Steffes, vice president and general manager of CPL Retail Energy. "By preserving this memorial we are ensuring that our children and future generations know about the bravery and courage of those that have served in the military."