Gold Star Mothers Monument Will Be Rededicated Next Week

CHICAGO - The Gold Star Mothers World War I monument in the Dan Ryan Woods will be rededicated on Thursday, Nov. 8, just three days before the 100-year anniversary of the end of World War I.

"A lot had to come together to get this done," said Tim Noonan, the Beverly resident who has spearheaded an effort over the past five years to restore the monument dedicated to mothers of fallen soldiers. "I like to say that it was the angels coming in at the last minute and finding the right resources."

The monument was discovered in 2013 during a cleaning of the Dan Ryan Woods. Research showed that it was originally dedicated in the 1920s but later became lost in the forest.

Next week, it will be shown in its restored condition. Finishing touches will finalize the new monument in the upcoming days, Noonan said.

Thursday's ceremony will be at the 11th hour of the 8th day of the 11th month. Three days to the minute of the 100-year anniversary of Armistice Day. The event will be hosted by the Chicago Council of Gold Star Mothers and includes the presentation of Colors by the Marine Corps Recruiting Station and remarks by Gold Star Mother of U.S. Marine Cpl. Conner T. Lowry Modie Lavin, according to a BAPA e-newsletter.

"We put a lot of faith in the community to help with this important project," Noonan said. "This community has a lot of supporters of our service men and women."

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Photos courtesy of Tim Noonan