LIBERTY – Those in favor of keeping a carved sculpture that features a cross at the Whitewater Memorial State Park are receiving support from some members of Indiana government.
On Tuesday, we learned the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) sent a letter to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources asking for the cross to be removed, or the entire statue from the state park.
In response to the controversial debate, Rep. Jud McMillin (R-Brookville) said, “I applaud the Department of Natural Resources as well as Governor Mike Pence to ensure that the fallen heroes sculpture is placed at the Whitewater State Park. This was a great community project and a wonderful way to recognize all the sacrifices made by our veterans, the fallen heroes of this great country.
“This park was dedicated in 1949 to the veterans of World War II, and this statue is an extension of that dedication. It is important that we remember the sacrifices made by those who paid the ultimate price for our country, and this memorial, as it stands, is our community’s way of never forgetting the price they paid.”
Indiana Governor Mike Pence also released a statement in support of the current placement of the sculpture:
“I fully support the decision by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to accept the sculpture commissioned by local citizens to honor all who have fallen in service to our country.
The freedom of religion does not require freedom from religion. The Constitutions of our state and nation more than allow the placement of this Hoosier artist’s sculpture on public land. So long as I am Governor, I will defend the right of Hoosiers to display this sculpture in Whitewater Memorial State Park as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of all who have worn the uniform of the United States.”
The FFRF took the stance that the cross does not represent the non-Christian soldiers who served in the military, and say the cross does not belong on public property.
