Murals Rock Rapids

Twenty six murals currently dot the landscape of Rock Rapids, Iowa, June 6, 2013, and more are expected. Rock Rapids Mural Society member Norma Jansma explains the mural project began in 2002 as a way of telling the history of the small town. (photo by Jerry Mennenga ©)

“War Memorial, Artist: Steve Troy

Sixth Mural

It is where we came from, where we are, and where we are going. But freedom is anything but free. Rather, it is a priceless treasure that we Americans have earned with our toil, our blood, and in some cases our lives. We, the people of Rock Rapids, are proud of our heritage. We prize the our liberties. Let us not forget that we live in freedom not because it is our right – but because those who have gone before us pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor to earn and defend it. We shall be eternally indebted to those who have died in the struggle to protect our freedom – and to those whose lives were taken simply because the lived in freedom. The survival then, of this freedom is up to us. It is our responsibility – our duty – to maintain our liberty no matter who or what threatens it. God Bless America. – Scott Van Aartsen”