The Bronze Bong Issue: Illinois Korean War Memorial

Head to Springfield, Illinois and give a nod to the 1,748 Illinoisans who gave their all during the Korean War. The Oak Ridge Cemetery's Memorial, adorned with a 12-foot-high bronze bell playing short, laid-back tunes, is a singular tribute worth the stop.

In the heart of Springfield, Illinois, right within the Oak Ridge Cemetery, you'll stumble across a moving memorial dedicated to the 1,748 Illinoisans who were exited the scene or MIA during the Korean War. Unveiled in June 1996, this memorial stands tall with a 12-foot-tall bronze bell atop a granite base. The bell's been engraved with the names of our departed heroes. But there's more! This bell holds a carillon system, playing brief, chill music sets for visitors that seem to float up. This combo forms four, easy-breezy nooks, symbolizing the branches of service during that time. The memorial also features granite slabs, each displaying the names of our fallen soldiers. As a courtesy, we've even chalked out a dedicated parking spot. All in all, the bell and carillon system make for a mesmerizing tribute to our fallen war heroes

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata

Written by Friendly Jane

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