Soldier Memorial - Moore, OK - Outside Wooden Display Carvings on Waymarking.com

Prior to the completion of the Soldiers’ Memorial the northeast corner of Veterans Memorial Park was a grassy area with four large mature trees and several smaller newly planted trees. The large trees were believed to be two walnut trees and two elm trees. The four large trees died during the winter of 08/09. City staff recommended that rather than simply cut down the trees that something useful and creative be done with them. It was suggested that, if possible, soldiers should be carved into the trees. An Oklahoma woodcarving artist, Clayton Coss, was contacted and after meeting with City staff and viewing the trees it was determined that the trees could be carved into soldiers. The 45th Infantry Brigade and the 45th Infantry Division Museum were contacted and times were set up to photograph individuals who volunteered to serve as models for the proposed carved soldiers.

In September 2009 the trees were cut down and transported to Clayton Coss’s workshop in Inola, Oklahoma. Using the four trees from this area, Mr. Coss began carving the soldiers into the trees in January 2010. Final delivery of the completed carved soldiers was made in March 2010...

A ceremony to dedicate and unveil the soldiers was held in May 2010. The four soldiers represent the four major wars since the end of World War I. They include World War II (the lone soldier near the bridge), Korea, Vietnam and Afghanistan/Iraq War (the three soldiers grouped in the area in front of you). Thanks to all of our veterans past and present who have helped provide the freedom we so much enjoy. Your fellow citizens are humbled and inspired by your courage, devotion to country, and sacrifices. The citizens of Moore say, "Thank you."

The sculptures were dedicated on May 15, 2010.