Chattanooga picks artist & design for Fallen Five Memorial

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – A process that began last summer culminated tonight at the Chattanooga City Council meeting.

The city has picked Houston artists Shane Albritton and Norman Lee of RE:site Studio to design a Memorial to the Fallen Five.

The city chose the “Wreath of Honor” proposal.

“The selection panel was presented with three exceptional design proposals. However, “Wreath of Honor” stood out for its timeless design and uplifting spirit,” said Katelyn Kirnie, Director of Public Art.

The Memorial will be at the Tennessee Riverpark near the Naval Operations Support Center on Amnicola Highway where the five service members were gunned down.

Artist Norman Lee explains the inspiration for the design.

“The suspended wreath creates a powerful gesture that marks the Riverpark site made sacred by the attacks that occurred on July 16, 2015, at the nearby US Navy Operational Support Center, but also by the tremendous acts of kindness, support and strength that occurred following July 16th.”

Groundbreaking for the Memorial will be held on July 16, 2018.

The dedication is scheduled for a year later on July 16, 2019.

The cost of the proposed Memorial still must be approved by the City Council.