Veterans Day 2012 - Spirit of the American Doughboy

Just off the Lincoln Highway in Mechanicsville, Iowa is a tribute to World War I American soldiers. Known as the "Spirit of the American Doughboy" the sculpture was designed by E.M. Viquesney and sold to cities throughout the 1920s and 30s. A detailed story of this design and history including its similarity to the Statue of Liberty can be read here.

Some 300 of these statues may still be found in cemeteries, parks or near government buildings throughout the country as a tribute to the American fighters of World War I. On this day with its genesis as Armistice Day, we remember all veterans and their contribution to American freedom and liberties.