New Mural Telling Vienna History, Honoring Vets Unveiled At Company's Headquarters

VIENNA, VA — A new mural honoring Vienna history and military veterans was unveiled Wednesday at the Vienna headquarters of Navy Federal Credit Union.

The new mural by veteran artist Patrick Sargent was made in partnership with Arlington-based American Legion Post 139. It is located along Mary's Mile Trail and tells 200 years of history in Vienna through the perspective of the historic red oak trees.

"This mural is a powerful reminder of the strength and sacrifice of our veterans. It’s also a celebration of what we can accomplish when we come together as a community," said George Eichert, senior vice president of workplace, infrastructure and logistics at Navy Federal Credit Union. "We’re proud to support the American Legion and honor their legacy through this meaningful work of art."

According to American Legion Post 139's website, the mural tells Vienna's story through different eras. All of the mural parts are tied together with the red oak trees in the background, providing a constant observer of Vienna's history.

The Civil War era portion features soldiers and their camps and the Vienna Train Depot. Next up in the 1930s and 1940s era are Vienna's Freeman Store and Museum and the town's emerging development.

As the mural turns to the 1970s and 1980s, Vienna is a more developed street scene with cars and a bicyclist. The mural's last stop is in the 2000s, depicting Vienna today with Wolf Trap's Filene Center performances, a busy open air market and a family walking through Meadowlark Botanical Gardens.

Sargent painted the mural at no cost, with Navy Federal Credit Union providing materials and support. More than 100 community volunteers helped with the mural's creation.

SEE ALSO: Air Force Veteran Patrick Sargent Uses Art To Heal — And Help Fellow Veterans Do The Same

During a ceremony to unveil the mural on Wednesday, Navy Federal Credit Union presented a $15,000 donation to American Legion Post 139 to help its mission of supporting veterans. The ceremony featured remarks from Navy Federal President and CEO Dietrich Kuhlmann and Sargent of American Legion Post 139. Former Navy Federal President and CEO Mary McDuffie and Vienna Mayor Linda Colbert attended along with Town Council members.