‘Eyes of Freedom’ Memorial returns to Crafton Hills College

Publish Date: Dec. 4, 2023

The “Eyes of Freedom” memorial made its way to Crafton Hills College earlier this month after a stop in the Midwest. 

CHC leadership along with other members of the campus community and local politicians gathered inside the Roadrunner Café on Dec. 4 to formally welcome the exhibit to campus, marking the second time “Freedom” has been displayed at the College. 

Created by Ohio-based artist Anita Miller, “Eyes of Freedom” tells the story of 22 Marines and one Navy Corpsman who lost their lives during the Iraq War in 2005. The men were deployed with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, which suffered some of the heaviest U.S. casualties during the conflict. 

Miller’s portraits of the 23 lost are accompanied by their boots, dog tags, and messages of remembrance from loved ones. 

Among those in attendance were San Bernardino County Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe, who shared with guests that not far from where the 23 men died, her husband, Marine Corps. Capt. Alan Rowe, was killed by an improvised explosive device while serving during the conflict. 

“As you look at some of the plaques today, you’ll see that some of the men from Lima Company were killed in the same vicinity approximately 11 months after my husband was killed,” she said. “And so, this is an exceptionally touching display for me to walk through. We’re all blessed to be here today because of their sacrifices.” 

Zara Martin, a second-year Crafton student and Army veteran, then praised “Freedom” organizers for this moving recognition of patriotism and sacrifice. 

“In the culture of just being a number and a statistic, you make us feel not only seen but heard. You gave us that unconditional love that we so needed when we got home and felt out of place,” said the 24-year-old. “For many of us, our battle is silent, but you are able to advocate for it so beautifully. Thank you for being our shoulder to lean on when we needed it the most.” 

“Eyes of Freedom” formally made its debut in 2008 in the Ohio State House Rotunda. Since then, the display has toured the country. 

Along with portraits of the 23, “Freedom” is accompanied by Miller’s “Silent Battle” sculpture, inspired by veterans who deal with the pain of post-traumatic stress syndrome or have taken their own lives. Guests were encouraged to leave notes of encouragement on dog tags to add at the base of the sculpture during their visit. All notes left behind will accompany the sculpture as it continues to tour the country, organizers said.