By SUE SUCHYTA
Sunday Times Newspapers
WYANDOTTE – A recent walkathon to benefit the Purple Heart Memorial Garden raised $2,140 for its restoration – a nice 80th birthday present for Marge Roberts, the driving force behind the memorial renovation.
Mayor Joseph Peterson announced the walkathon results at Monday’s City Council meeting and said Manuel “Matty” Maroun, owner of the Ambassador Bridge, donated $5,000 to become a diamond level donor.
The garden, at Biddle and Superior, originally was dedicated in 1943 by Michigan Gov. Harry Kelly during World War II. The limestone statue of an American soldier caring for a wounded brother in arms was designed and sculptured by Isadore DeBiasi of River Rouge. It has been removed and is in the process of being cast professionally in bronze.
In addition to the statue renovation, a Walk of Honor made up of engraved memorial bricks flank the statue site. Additional bricks are available for purchase.
Flags from the five branches of the service will serve as a permanent honor guard around the memorial and partially will encircle the restored statue.
For more information go to www.wyandotte.net/beautification or call (734) 324-7284. Donations may be sent to: Purple Heart Memorial Garden, 2610 Biddle Ave., Wyandotte MI 48192.