Wisconsin Pillar from WWII Memorial dedicated at Coal Dock Park

A replica of the Wisconsin Pillar from the WWII Memorial that stands in Washington, D.C., was dedicated Nov. 9 in Coal Dock Park, in Port Washington, Wis., as a tribute to all Wisconsin veterans. We were one of the sponsors of the dedication event, which was hosted by the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight organization.

Gale Klappa, our chairman, president and CEO, one of the speakers at the event, said, “As I was preparing my remarks for today, I couldn’t help but remember the words of the great American poet, Ralph Waldo Emerson. He wrote: The years teach much which the days never know.”

He continued: “And today—through the perspective of time and the prism of history—we understand much better the enormity of the challenge, the magnitude of the sacrifice, and the valor of the young men and women who fought fearlessly for our freedom during World War II.

Ceremonies for the pillar dedication were conducted Nov. 9. 

More than 200 people attended the event.

“On behalf of the men and women of We Energies, I’m delighted that the World War II Wisconsin pillar has found a permanent home in the shadow of our new Port Washington generating station and on the grounds of our former coal dock, which is being transformed into a beautiful venue called Coal Dock Park.

“The pillar will stand here for generations who will gather to remember and to honor those whose lives gave new meaning to the idea of service above self.”

Wisconsin Energy, our parent company, has partnered with Stars and Stripes Honor Flight since its inception, helping sponsor flights to Washington, D.C., to take WWII veterans to see their memorial and the other historic sights, as well as the Field of Honor event this past August at Miller Park.

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