Existing comment:
At an elevation of about 150' above street level, on the pedestal above the six large columns on all four sides of the Indiana World War Memorial, stand six heroic figures. These symbolic stone guardians, sculpted by artist Henry Hering, represent the virtues of Courage, Memory, Peace, Victory, Liberty, and Patriotism.
Hering originally intended to portray each subject with a female figure, but decided that "Courage" and "Patriotism" could be best expressed by male figures with more rugged physique and adorned with less drapery. These were placed at the extreme ends enclosing the 4 female figures, their stances and expressions conveying determination. Each bears a shield of stars and stripes, and thus they represent American courage and patriotism, respectively.
"Memory" conveys a silent mood of reflection, bearing tribute to the past with wreath and palm. "Peace" holds the two time-honored symbols of the virtue she embodies, an olive branch and a dove. "Victory" appears with helmet and sword, holding a winged victory-goddess. "Liberty" bears the torch of freedom with its enlightening flame, and wears the crown of liberty. |