Representatives of The Amarillo Veterans Affairs Hospital and citizens gathered on Wednesday afternoon for the unveiling of a new statue on the VA grounds.

The hand cut medal statue is a depiction of the U.S. Marines raising the American flag after the Battle of Iwo Jima.

It was made to represent and honor all servicemen of the United States Armed Forces.

John Blakley SR and John Blakley JR worked together for a month to create the amazing tribute.

After the dedication Blakley SR shared his feelings about the statue. “It makes me proud. I wanted to do something that brought out the flag. I don’t think we represent the flag as well as we used to, and I wanted to bring out the veterans to honor the sacrifice they have made so that we can still bring out the flag”.

The new statue is on display for all to see and enjoy at the 9th Street entrance of the VA.