Pan-O-Prog Day 3: 'Eyes of Freedom' Highlights Sacrifice of Troops

There may be nothing more symbolic of Independence Day and the sacrifice made by those who fight for this country than the "Eyes of Freedom" memorial display coming to Pan-O-Prog this year.

Lakeville's Yellow Ribbon is hosting the traveling display which depicts life-sized paintings of the 22 Marines and one Navy Corpsman from the Ohio Lima Company who were killed during the war in Iraq—more than any other company in the US Armed Forces.

The memorial will be on display from July 4-7 at the old Ace Hardware building, located at 20851 Holyoke Ave.

Pan-O-Prog President Sheri Stolp said the display is not only impressive, but moving.

"The potential of this type of event is unquantifiable," Stolp said. "It showcases both honor and gratitude for all individuals who protect our freedom every day. It's a very moving experience."

The artist who created the memorial also has Lakeville ties. Anita Miller once lived in Lakeville, and Stolp said she'll be on hand during Pan-O-Prog.

"The memorial now travels throughout the country to share the story of incredible service and sacrifice of all veterans, including the Lima Company," Stolp said. "We're lucky to have it here."

Miller, who now resides in Ohio, home of the Lima Company, has said she felt moved to paint the 22 life-sized renderings after seeing the finished product in a vision. With the help of the families of the fallen and the returned Marines of the company, the memorial was created and unveiled in the Ohio State House Rotunda in 2008, as Miller's vision foretold.

It has since been shared with hundreds of thousands of people around the country, including the National Marine Corps Museum and the R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl in 2011.

For more information about the display, go to LakevilleVeterans.com. The memorial is free to view, but donations are welcome.

Eyes of Freedom display times: 

• Wednesday, July 4th 10 AM to 4 PM
• Thursday, July 5th  Noon to 10 PM.
• Friday, July 6th  Noon to 10 PM
• Saturday, July 7th 10 AM to 9 PM (closed during parade)

What else is happening on Wednesday, July 4?

Boat Parade - Lake Marion - 7:30-8 p.m.: Watch from Antlers Park or anywhere along the lakeshore as decorated boats display their pride.

Fourth of July Fireworks - Lakeville North High School - The aerial extravaganza explodes at dusk, but the fun starts earlier. The Castaways will be performing live beginning at 7 p.m.

Be sure to follow all 's .