Story Created:
Nov 10, 2007 at 8:31 PM CDT
Story Updated:
Nov 10, 2007 at 11:02 PM CDT
A statue on Phillips Avenue in downtown Sioux Falls is what started it all. It sent a very personal message to Robb Rolfing's family, one they want to share for generations to come.
It's an image of a fallen soldier being cared for by an angel that's caught many eyes along Phillips Avenue. Soon, this statue, only larger, will have a place at Veterans Memorial Park.
"People can come down here and sit and reflect about what America really is about and our freedoms and the things that we're about to do," said Rex Rolfing, Robb Rolfing's father.
Plans for recreating the statue were unveiled today as Rolfing's family and fellow soldiers gathered to raise awareness and help raise money.
"Oh, it means a lot. It's obviously going to stay in my memory for the rest of my life, as will Robb. But it's one of those things where you show support and it's actually nice to see the support of the rest of the town," Cliff Lopez, commander and fellow member of Rolfing's unit.
Members of Robb's unit and their families traveled from across the country to be here. They want Robb to be remembered for the man he was...
"Rob was a great guy. He loved what he did and he knew what he was getting himself into. And we were all lucky for having him around," said Raymond T., a fellow member of Rolfing's unit.
And for what he believed in.
"It will serve as a constant reminder and I think that's good. For everything he stood for," said Lopez.
While the statue is dedicated to Robb Rolfing, his father wants it to stand for Robb's fellow soldiers and everyone who has served for this country.
"It's for all veterans. And that's what it's going to be, for all veterans. It commemorates what the veterans have done here for America, celebrating our freedom because freedom isn't free," said Rex Rolfing.
While the larger statue is being built at Veteran's Memorial Park, the statue on Phillips Avenue will be given to the Rolfing family.
If you'd like to donate to the project, direct your gifts to the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation:
SFACF - Going Home Fund
300 N. Phillips #102
Sioux Falls, SD 57104
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