Thanks for the Memories
By MARK HEASLET
Updated 5:10 PM PST, Wed, Jul 8, 2009
It took a few years, 15 to be honest, but veterans were able to finally say "Thanks for the memories" to Bob Hope, the legendary star who entertained millions of U.S. troops over a half century.
A bronze statue of Hope was finally dedicated Wednesday along San Diego's Embarcadero near the Midway Museum aircraft carrier.
The piece called "A National Salute to Bob Hope and the Military" shows the comedian entertaining 15 bronze figures representing U.S. servicemen and women.
The audience members were dedicated three years ago but it wasn't until recently, that the piece was completed.
A group of World War II veterans spent 15 years raising $1.5 million to commission the artwork.
Hope's son Kelly and daughter Linda attended the moving dedication.
"It's a very emotional day for me. Obviously Dad was a big part of all of our lives, we as a family are most honored, proud, and glad to have shared him with the world and this is such a wonderful honor to Dad," said Kelly Hope.
Bob Hope entertained troops during World War II, the Korean conflict, Vietnam and even the first Iraq war. He died in 2003 at age 100.
"When he did his shows overseas, he brought a little bit of home with him,” said Jack Yusen, one of the veterans who worked tirelessly to raise the money for the statue. “He was Number One."
First Published: Jul 8, 2009 4:12 PM PST
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