Prophetstown dedicates mural: Artwork by high school students commemorates greatest generation

(Philip Marruffo/pmarruffo@svnmail.com)

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PROPHETSTOWN – World War II-era music filled the air Saturday morning as veterans arrived for the dedication of a mural to commemorate the battles fought by the greatest generation.

The mural, at the intersection of Washington and Third streets in Prophetstown, lists the names of veterans from both World War I and World War II.

Most attendees were veterans and their families, including, Robert Anderson, 97, who served under Gen. George S. Patton and received a bronze star in July 1945.

“I really think they did a nice job,” Anderson said of the Prophetstown High School students who painted the mural. “It’s going to really honor the World War II veterans.”

“I still get chills down my spine when I see my dad’s name on the mural,” said Denny Frary, who provided the opening remarks for the dedication.

Robert VanDeVelde also spoke at the ceremony to urge support for Honor Flights, a non-profit organization that flies veterans to Washington, D.C., for a day, free of charge.

Former Mayor Howard Thompson organized the 12 murals in town, including the World War II mural.

“The thing I wanted right from the start was for the art class students to be involved,” Thompson said.

The dedication ended with more nostalgic music, a rifle salute by the Prophetstown American Legion, and a benediction from Pastor Greg Olson.