Ernie Pyle WWII Museum begins new Memorial Park project

The Friends of Ernie Pyle, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Pulitzer Prize-winning World War II correspondent, has announced the start of a significant new development at the Ernie Pyle WWII Museum in Dana.

The first phase of construction on the Ernie Pyle & Veterans Memorial Park is now underway on the museum’s north side.

This initial phase of the multi-million-dollar project will include the foundation for a bronze statue of Ernie Pyle, along with permanent ADA-accessible features designed to enhance the museum’s offerings and honor those who served in World War II.

The future memorial park will serve as a tribute to Pyle’s work and legacy, as well as to the generation he wrote about. Plans for the completed park include a covered performance stage, a display of military flags representing all branches of the armed services, a Victory Garden, and educational panels. The park will also feature Indiana-native plants and spaces that visitors can use for community events and gatherings.

At the heart of the memorial, a bronze statue of Ernie Pyle, created by acclaimed sculptor Bill Wolfe, is being prepared for installation. It will be erected on a dedicated plaza in the park, alongside two historic Quonset huts that make up the Ernie Pyle WWII Museum.

“The Friends of Ernie Pyle see the park as another way we can honor Pyle, whose columns gave Americans a vivid view of the lives of soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen during World War II,” said Steve Key, president of the Friends of Ernie Pyle Development Fund.

The nonprofit organization emphasizes the importance of preserving Pyle’s legacy, not only as a journalist who captured the realities of war but also as an advocate for combat pay for U.S. service members.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Friends of Ernie Pyle rely entirely on donations, grants, and volunteer efforts to fund projects, maintain the historic Elder-Pyle farmhouse, and keep the museum open to the public. The museum operates under an agreement with the Helt Township Trustee and Advisory Board, ensuring free admission for all visitors.

“We hope you approve of our efforts to improve the museum and create a new Vermillion County asset,” Key added in a recent statement.

Community members and supporters are encouraged to contribute to the project. Donations can be made online at www.erniepyle.org or sent directly to the Ernie Pyle WWII Museum, P.O. Box 345, Dana, IN 47847.

For more information, visit the museum’s website and join the effort to preserve the memory of Ernie Pyle and the Greatest Generation.