Photos courtesy Steve Gross; collage designed by Ron D'Albero
GI Joe Statue
The "GI Joe" statue was commissioned to honor WWII veterans. Later, names of victims from the Korean Conflict were added. It was originally dedicated in 1946 at the corner of Brighton and York Avenues. Over time it fell victim to vandals and was relocated in 1984 to a secure location on the grounds of Assumption Church. The statue was indeed secure but hardly noticeable. Recently, it has been moved to the corner of Lafayette and Brighton Avenues where it is truly honored by its visibility and prominence as can be seen in these photos.