The Kenai Peninsula has one of the highest veteran populations in the state; a local group has set a goal to install a statue in Soldotna to thank them.
The Iron Mike Project began officially accepting donations on July 4, 2015 and hope to raise $48,000 by July 4, 2016.
Dave Carey with the volunteer Iron Mike Project Committee said every dollar goes only to purchasing and installing the statue.
Carey: “And we’re working along with support from the City of Soldotna on the Kenai Peninsula Iron Mike Project and it’s to honor all vets. It’s to get a five-foot high bronze statue of paratrooper Iron Mike at the entrance of Soldotna Creek Park.”
Iron Mike is a de facto name of monuments honoring service men and women; the original statue was designed by Leah Hiebert in the 1950’s and placed outside of Ft. Bragg.
Carey detailed his personal connections to veterans.
Carey: “When I was four my father was killed, he was a navy pilot, that era, WWII and the Korean War, I have a brother who is currently disabled, received the Silver Star as well as Purple Hearts in Vietnam. I have a brother-in-law who was a Green Beret in Vietnam. I’ve taught 3,000 and some students in this area, many of them have served in the last 20 years in the military. We want to reach out to all of them and say thank you.”
Soldotna administration passed a resolution in January saying they supported the endeavor. So far the project has raised $1,532.77.
Those interested in the project may contact Dave Carey at dcarey1952@gmail.com.