A very emotional exhibit, “Remembering Our Fallen,” is a sad reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by 82 Iowans killed in The War on Terror while wearing our country’s uniform in Afghanistan or Iraq. The photo display has been traveling throughout Iowa since its unveiling to the families of The Fallen last May, and will be coming to The Palo Community Center, hometown of Army Sgt. Kevin Allan Gilbertson.
 
“The warriors of the 21st Century, professionals, who volunteered to join the United States Armed Forces, grew up in the shadow of September 11, 2001, a defining moment for most of them. They come from all walks of life and every corner of our country, daring to go where so many never would. They retain the face of freedom and build upon the legacies of those who went before them in a cause greater than themselves.”
 
“We can never forget those who sacrificed everything for our freedom. We must remember these American Heroes and speak their names when we see their family members,” said Bill Williams, exhibit co-creator. “This exhibit is created so it can travel easily throughout Iowa, so that more people will have the opportunity to honor and remember Iowa’s Fallen.”
 
Army Sgt. Kevin A. Gilbertson was 24 when he died Aug. 31 2007 in Landstuhl, Germany, of wounds sustained from a suicide bomber during combat on Aug. 29, 2007 in Ramadi, Iraq. He was a newly-minted family man with a new wife and son. A 2001 graduate of Cedar  Rapids Jefferson High School, Kevin was known for his upbeat attitude and feisty sense of humor.
 
The exhibit was created by Bill & Evonne Williams of Patriotic Productions in Omaha and is sponsored by Bellevue University. The American Legion of Iowa has endorsed the project, realizing the importance of remembering those who are willing to sacrifice all.
 
 
Time and place:
“Remembering Our Fallen” is a free exhibit which will be on display March 1-7 2012 at The Palo Community Center located at 2800 Hollenbeck Road, Palo Iowa
Hours are:
8am-4pm Weekdays
10am-4pm Saturday
Noon-4pm on Sunday.
 
Flag/Opening Ceremony on Saturday March 3rd at 12pm.
 
The exhibit is open to the public. Contact: LTC John Schulte at 319-899-8173 john.schulte@us.army.mil or Scott Rathjens, Patriot Guard Riders at 319-310-0347 sdarath3@gmail.com If you would like to host the display or would like more information visit: www.rememberingourfallen.org.