A tribute to four highly decorated South Dakota WWII veterans will be unveiled this afternoon (Oct. 16) at the Pierre Regional Airport.
Artist John Mollison says “The Eagles Gallery” features drawings of the aircraft flown by “Doolittle Raiders” Henry “Hank” Potter from Pierre and Don Smith from Oldham, Distinguished Flying Cross recipient Harold Thune from Murdo and Navy Cross recipient Curtis Cameron Pierpont.
He says each piece is personalized.
The art will accompany the existing display honoring Battle of Midway hero John Waldron from Fort Pierre.
When asked why “The Eagles Gallery” display will be in Pierre, Mollison admits he’s a little biased.
The unveiling is at 4pm, but Mollison encourages people to come out early.
Mollison says attendees are encouraged to wear masks and to maintain social distancing.
“The Eagles Gallery” was originally scheduled to be unveiled in April, but delayed because of COVID-19.