July 2017 WWI Monument Preservation Grant Recipients

City of Aurora: “Branches of Services Plaque," Aurora

The City of Aurora will use the grant funding to restore the “Branches of Services Plaque” on the city’s New York Street Bridge – a 660-foot bridge across the Fox River constructed in 1931 as a tribute to WWI soldiers. The bronze plaque on the bridge has suffered much corrosion from the weather and prolonged exposure to chemical compounds in the decades since its dedication. Restoring the plaque is part of the City of Aurora’s multi-year project to restore all historic elements of the New York Street Bridge.

Second Indianhead Division Association: Belleau Wood WWI monument, Des Plaines

The Second Indianhead Division Association will use the grant funding for cleaning and restoration of the Belleau Wood WWI monument, located within Cook County Forest Preserve in Des Plaines. The monument commemorates the three-week Battle of Belleau Wood of 1918 that is credited as having a significant impact on stopping a German offensive that threatened Paris. It is the largest memorial to honor the U.S. 2nd Division outside of Washington, D.C. The Second Indianhead Division Association wishes to clean the monument in preparation for a rededication ceremony in August.

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