Honor - Duty - Sacrifice - Service

These qualities are exemplified by the men and women who serve our country and community. Created by Platform Art in partnership with the Polk County Veterans Council, the project comprises three public sculptures—Honor, Sacrifice, and Service—recognizing veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency responders. Honor, the first sculpture in the series, was unveiled on May 9, 2014.

Professional artist Tom Monaco challenged Polk County high school students to interpret these themes through original sculpture designs. Sixty entries were reviewed by Monaco and representatives of the agencies being honored.    Final designs were presented and juried during the 2014, 2015, and 2016 PlatformKIDS Art Festivals.

 

Lake Region High School seniors Maria Vazquez, Cierra Grenier, and Jenna Huffman were selected to transform their ideas into permanent public art. Working with Monaco at Fourth Wall Designs, they experienced the full creative process—from concept development and material selection to fabrication and installation. Using computer-controlled equipment, welding tools, glass, and steel, the students gained technical skills, confidence, and experience collaborating with a professional artist.

 

Maria Vazquez selected the poem HONOR for incorporation into her sculpture. William McGehee wrote the poem as a high school senior and later served his second tour in Afghanistan. WUSF reporter Bobbie O’Brien recorded McGehee reading the poem for her National Public Radio program, Off the Base, extending the project’s impact beyond Lakeland.

Together, Honor, Sacrifice, and Service demonstrate how student creativity can shape public spaces, preserve important stories, and inspire civic pride. The sculptures connect art, education, and remembrance while providing a lasting place for the community to reflect on those who serve.

 

Platform Art gratefully acknowledges

WellDyneRx, Folsom Construction Management, The Drummond Company, CPS Investment Advisors, the City of Lakeland,

Their investment made these enduring community assets possible.