Description

The city of Elgin will host Remembering Our Fallen, a traveling photographic war memorial, from Monday, June 30, through Monday, July 7. The memorial will be on display at Civic Center Plaza near Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court. The public is invited to view the outdoor memorial throughout the installation period. A reference book detailing those depicted in the Tribute Towers will be available during regular business hours at City Hall.

The national memorial features 34 Tribute Towers adorned with military and personal photos of more than 5,000 U.S. service members who lost their lives during the war on terror, from Sept. 11, 2001, through Aug. 30, 2021. The tribute includes those who died from wounds sustained in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as those lost to training accidents, domestic or overseas attacks, and suicides linked to post-traumatic stress.

The memorial returns to Elgin following a successful first appearance during last year’s Memorial Day events. "People had such an emotional response to the memorial last year; we knew we had to bring it back and keep it for longer," said Amanda Harris, director of cultural arts and special events. "The combination of the Fourth of July activities and the backdrop of the Civic Center Plaza provided the perfect opportunity to allow for more time and space for visitors to enjoy the exhibit."

Originally unveiled at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., in 2017, Remembering Our Fallen continues to tour the nation as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the U.S. military.

Organizers of Remembering Our Fallen continue to reach out to Gold Star families to ensure every American hero is honored. Families may participate at no cost by submitting two photographs and basic information about their loved one. Submissions and additional details are available at RememberingOurFallen.org