"Eyes of Freedom," Memorializing Members of Columbus-Based Lima Company, Will be on Display at the Franklin County Fair in Hilliard July 13-20

Worthington Artist Anita Miller, Creator of the Memorial, and Westerville’s Mike Strahle, a Former Member of Lima Company, Will Appear Thursday, July 18 at Armed Forces Day

Columbus, OH, July 02, 2013 --(PR.com)-- Today, the Franklin County Fair announced that the work of local artist Anita Miller, the “Eyes of Freedom” Lima Company Memorial, will be on display throughout the fair. The exhibit has been traveling across the U.S. and has gained national attention for its depiction of the 22 Marines and one Navy corpsman who were lost while serving in Iraq from May to August 2005. Boots worn by the fallen soldiers accompany each of the eight portraits comprising the exhibit.

Miller and Mike Strahle, a retired member of Lima Company, will be at the fair on Armed Forces Day as part of a special ceremony beginning at 5:30 p.m. The ceremony will feature speakers such as Colonel Tom Moe (U.S. Air Force retired), who continues more than 46 years of military and public service as Director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services. Moe flew 85 combat missions and was captured and held as a POW in Vietnam, where he stayed for five years during his tour of duty.

“We’re very fortunate to have the ‘Eyes of Freedom’ memorial at this year’s fair,” said Emily Gabriel, president, Franklin County Agricultural Society. “We’re looking forward to fairgoers having the opportunity to see this work of art honoring the memory of the lost members of the Lima Company in one of its rare Columbus showings.”

It took Miller two and a half years to complete the project, during which she worked with the fallen soldiers’ family members to capture their essence. The “Eyes of Freedom” will be on display throughout the fair. To learn more about the exhibit, visit http://www.limacompanymemorial.org or the Lima Company Memorial’s Facebook page.

Armed Forces Day activities will take place throughout the day Thurs., July 18, with activities to recognize and support those currently serving and veterans, featuring military displays, presentations, and many military and veteran resources, as well as a concert by the 122nd Army Band and a patriotic sing-along.

Other highlights of this year’s fair include:
*A concert by Billboard chart-topping pop/rock band New Hollow, who hails from New Albany
*A National Tractor Pullers Association sanctioned Truck and Tractor Pull, Motocross, Harness Racing, and Demolition Derby
*A “Family Day” on Sun., July 14 featuring discounted day-long ride wristbands, “Minute to Win It”-style games, and many other family fun activities
*A “Senior Day” on Tues., July 16, featuring a pancake breakfast, health screenings, games, gift bags and much more for seniors
*The Farm Olympics, where kids participate in all kinds of traditional farm chores, with a twist; always creates great photo opportunities.

Hours and Admission
The Franklin County Fair Daily admission is per person: Sat. July 13 – Thurs. July 18 – $5.00; Friday July 19 & Sat. July 20 - $6.00. Admission includes all attractions and entertainment, unless otherwise noted. Ride tickets or wristbands may be purchased separately. Parking is free.

About the Franklin County Fair
The Franklin County Agricultural Society proudly serves the public by hosting its annual fair to provide an opportunity for education, entertainment and recreation while continuing to promote its purpose, honor its past and build for its future. For more information, please visit http://www.fcfair.org/. You may also follow us on Twitter @frcntyfair or “Like” us on Facebook.

Press Passes Available – To Schedule Interviews and Photo Opportunities Before and During the Fair, Contact Michelle Garrett, 614-315-4037
Contact
Garrett Public Relations
Michelle Garrett
614-315-4037
www.fcfair.org
Franklin County Fair Office, 614-876-7235
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