Kneeling Soldier sent to foundry
Courtesy photo
Ed Pickett and Robert “Shorty” Farmer are the artists behind the Kneeling Soldier statue.
Farmer provided the photography of the model and Pickett is the sculptor.
Vets group hopes for unveiling Nov. 11
The Van Zandt County Veterans Memorial has sent the prototype of the kneeling soldier to the foundry for casting and the time is nearing for the statue to finally take its place in the Veterans Memorial Plaza in Canton.
The Grapevine foundry was on hand April 10 through 12 to finish their part of protecting Ed Pickett's sculpture of the soldier. It was then disassembled into many parts to be transported to the foundry to have a mold made. Then the bronzing process can begin.
Pickett, a local sculptor, has donated many hours, time, energy and his talent to help make this come to pass. Photos of local soldier Juan Herrera were taken by photographer and VFW member Robert (Shorty) Farmer to ensure the lines and details would all be correct.
There are many steps involved in the final process and it is costly, but more than half of the needed funds have been collected.
The support of Van Zandt County residents and businesses in showing their love, respect and admiration for veterans has been overwhelming. With this continued support of our fundraising activities and donations, we plan to reach our goal, and have the kneeling soldier take its proper place in the Veterans Memorial Plaza on its pedestal.
An unveiling ceremony is planned for later this year, hopefully on Nov. 11.
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