HARRISBURG (WSIL) -- The City of Harrisburg has been working hard on updating a local cemetery to honor fallen heroes.
"It's been going on for years and years and years. There were 63 crosses here in the beginning, and the city just never really proceeded with the project. And over the last few months, we've really grown it, and we're up to 242 right now," said Mayor John McPeek.
Two hundred forty-two crosses have been placed within what is now known as the City of Harrisburg's "Little Arlington," honoring those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
"That's what each one of those crosses out here represent today, from a soldier that was killed in the line of duty from World War I to any present conflict," explained Mike Owens, Harrisburg's Superintendent of Street and Public Property.
Owens says countless hours went into researching and executing their vision, but it was worth every second. "We've had different veterans come out, and as they look at it, you can just sit, and when the tear comes to their eyes, you can tell you've done something that really meant something to them."
"This says it all. It's all over these 242 men. They gave their life from World War I to now and this is their honor," said Korean War veteran Don G. Cooper.
From every angle the crosses create a straight line. Cooper says the city made one of his dreams come true. "I'm just so thankful to the Lord I'm here and thankful to the Lord that this is going to brighten up southern Illinois."
City officials say the community has stepped up to offer help and support. They plan to have the project finished by Memorial Day for a ceremony.
