Uniting in tribute: RACVB hosts CRE8IV mural dedication, flag-raising ceremony; Community gathers at Veterans Memorial Circle to honor local veterans

GO ROCKFORD PHOTO Rockford Journal
RACVB hosted a CRE8IV mural dedication and flag-raising ceremony at Veterans Memorial Circle in collaboration with mural sponsors Collins Aerospace, Winnebago County and area partners to honor local veterans in the Rockford region. The dedication featured a moment of silence, singing of the national anthem and flag-raising ceremony honoring the United States of America’s military branches including the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard. The new display salutes America’s veterans and symbolizes inspiration for future generations to come.

Last week, the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (RACVB) proudly hosted a CRE8IV mural dedication and flag-raising ceremony in collaboration with mural sponsors Collins Aerospace, Winnebago County and area partners to honor local veterans in the Rockford region.

The event was inspired by and held at Veterans Memorial Circle in Rockford’s North End, located at 1436 N. Main St, Rockford. The dedication featured a moment of silence, singing of the national anthem and flag-raising ceremony honoring the United States of America’s military branches.

The new display salutes America’s veterans and symbolizes inspiration for future generations to come. This community gathering space is also a way for civilians to express gratitude and support for those who have served in the military.

The mural was created by artist AJ Davis as part of RACVB’s CRE8IV: transformational art initiative. The murals’ scene depicts an abstract version of the American flag that ties together three major elements including a F35 fighter jet, three blooming poppies and a soldier saluting in uniform. The camouflage and lid (or cap) are non-descript to represent all branches of the armed forces.

About the mural: “The F35 is a nod to Collins Aerospace, which is a local Rockford aerospace manufacturer who produces systems and parts for the F35, and generously supported this project.

“Poppies symbolize the memory of lost soldiers and are an offering to both remember and celebrate those lost lives. The soldier was referenced from a variation of 25 AI generated faces, prompted to utilize facial features from every race to cultivate an authentic approach to creating a figure that was focused on inclusivity.

“The soldier is facing the graveyard and memorial circle, in uniform and saluting,” said Davis. A commemorative flag was installed at the site to accompany the mural. It was raised with reverence to pay homage to five branches of US military – Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard.

“We are immensely proud to support the dedication of this CRE8IV mural and newly installed flag as a lasting tribute to our local veterans,” stated Winnebago County Chairman Joe Chiarelli. “Their courage and dedication have shaped our nation’s history and it is only fitting that we celebrate their legacy through this awe-inspiring work of art.” The County’s support was championed by County Board Member Angie Goral, whose district includes Veterans Memorial Circle.

 The successful completion of this project would not be possible without the efforts of sponsors, partners, building owner, volunteers, the mural artist and veterans in our community.

“On behalf of the RACVB I would like to thank the sponsors who helped to make this CRE8IV mural project a success in the Rockford region. Collins Aerospace and Winnebago County, both advocates of public art and our veterans, joined forces to provide generous support to bring this project to life,” said John Groh, RACVB president/CEO. “We are grateful to all volunteers and Friends of the Veteran’s Memorial Circle who continue to maintain the beauty and integrity of the circle. We thank AJ Davis for his inspiring work of art, the time and commitment to creating this mural and the time that went into depicting such meaning weaved throughout the mural. Lastly, thank you to our veterans for their service and sacrifice. This project stands as a testament to our collective appreciation for their bravery and dedication to our nation.” CRE8IV: transformational art is a community-building initiative launched in 2019 that seeks to add beauty to neighborhoods and make Rockford and the region known as an arts-infused destination.

Through the CRE8IV process RACVB has worked with renowned artists and area partners to create and install 44 murals and 16 sculptures in the community.

To explore Rockford’s public art virtually – or to plan your in person tour – visit RockfordPublicArt.com.About: RACVB is responsible for promoting the Rockford region as an attractive travel destination and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to live and work. Through the impact of travel, RACVB strengthens the economic position of the region and provides opportunities for people in our communities.