Delco Veterans Memorial Gifted Battlefield Cross

NEWTOWN SQUARE, PA — The Delaware County Veterans Memorial Association has been gifted a Battlefield Cross by a local veteran organization and is now located at the Delaware County Veterans Memorial in Newtown Square

Smedley D. Butler Detachment 741 of the Marine Corps League donated the cross, which was sculpted by current member and veteran Terry Jones.

Jones, a professional sculptor of more than 50 years, specializes in creating monumental and collectible bronze sculptures.

He combines his lifelong love of history with his storytelling ability to create dynamic monuments as seen in the Battlefield Cross. As a former US Marine Corps, serving from 1966 to 1972, Jones understands firsthand the symbolism behind his most recent piece.

"The Soldier’s or Battlefield Cross is composed of the soldier’s rifle stuck into the ground or boots, with their helmet on top of the rifle; sometimes dog tags are included," Jones said. "It was a way to mark the place of the fallen in the battlefield, but in sculpture, it has become an iconic symbol of heroism, sacrifice, and contribution to the defense of our country. Today it is a means of showing respect for all the deceased from the US Military."

The DCVMA accepted and proudly displayed the Battlefield Cross as solemn tribute to fallen soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States.

"The members of Smedley Butler Detachment are proud to present the Battlefield Cross to DCVMA," said William M. Kinney, Jr, member of the local Marine Corps League. "We are honored to be able to represent and pay tribute to our fallen soldiers on the Memorial’s hallowed grounds."

The Delaware County Veterans Memorial is an open-air living legacy to the military history of the United States. Open daily year-round and free to the public, visitors are welcomed to learn, honor and reflect on the American Wars and Conflicts, from the War of 1812 to the Wars of the Middle East.

"We are so thankful for this generous donation and for the support and service of the entire Smedley Butler Detachment," said Joseph Daly, Board President of DCVMA. "We encourage visitors to come to the Memorial and see the Battlefield Cross in person. It is truly a remarkable and moving piece."

The memorial is located at 4599 W. Chester Pike in Newtown Square.