Purdue students lead effort for Freedom Square project
A group of student leaders on the West Lafayette campus is working to raise money to create a gathering space that will celebrate freedom while also honoring those who have fought for it.
Members of Iron Key, a senior honorary organization, are working with the University to create Purdue Freedom Square, which will be located on the lawn of the southwest corner of the Armory. The space will feature seating, the seals of all five branches of the United States armed forces -- Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard -- and a path leading to the Armory. Lighting will allow for the United States flag to be flown 24 hours a day.
The Freedom Square website at www.purduefreedomsquare.com states that the Armory location was selected for a number of reasons:
* It is a key part of the University’s history that few people fully understand.
* The Armory currently and historically has provided training for the brave men and women of our armed forces who have chosen to protect our freedom.
* The desire for all individuals to use the location to celebrate freedom in whatever way he or she perceives.
* This space will add pride and positive attention to the Armory and will be a location of "spontaneous discovery," leaving a positive and inspirational impression on all students, faculty, staff and visitors.
Groundbreaking is scheduled for July 28, and a dedication ceremony is expected to be held in September.
The estimated cost of the project is $60,000, and the group has raised approximately $45,000.
Donations may be made in the following ways:
* Checks payable to Purdue Foundation may be sent to Freedom Square Project, c/o Office of the VPSA, Schleman Hall, 475 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907. Please indicate Freedom Square Project on the memo line of the check.
* Call 800-319-2199.
* Make a gift online at https://donate.purdue.edu/DesignateGift.aspx. In the "Designation Area," select "Other-specify comments." Under "Under Instructions," type in Freedom Square. The "Select a Fund" and "Appeal code" areas will be left blank.
Questions may be directed to Annette Lamb at 49-43555 or alamb@purdue.edu.
