As Veterans Day approaches, Naperville residents have a unique way to honor those who served: a walk among six public artworks that commemorate local military history. All are part of the city’s Century Walk outdoor collection, easily reachable on foot from downtown.
World War I Doughboy
Located in Burlington Square Park just south of the train station, the bronze figure created by E.M. Viquesney shows a young American soldier marching across “No Man’s Land.” Inspired by John McCrae’s poem In Flanders Fields, the piece is one of the nation’s most recognized World War I memorials. A nearby plaque lists the names of seven Naperville doughboys, reminding visitors that the sacrifices of the trenches reached even this Midwestern town.
World War I Sailorboy
Across the park from the doughboy stands Viquesney’s “Sailorboy,” a rare copper edition made in 1927 as a companion to the soldier. The sailor waves toward his counterpart, together symbolizing the “War to End All Wars” and the joint service of Army and Navy veterans.
Oliver Julian “Judd” Kendall Memorial (2023)
At Veterans Park, 303 E. Gartner Road, a new sculpture honors Oliver Julian Kendall, a Naperville native captured during the first American offensive at Cantigny, France. According to the Century Walk guide, Kendall’s refusal to give his captors any information was a pivotal moment in the war. The memorial also recognizes Gold Star families who continue to bear the loss of their loved ones.
Bill Shatzer Tribute (2001)
On the North Central College campus, between Cardinal Stadium and Merner Field House, a sculpture commemorates alumnus Bill Shatzer. He graduated in 1942, served at the Iowa Naval Training Station, and was listed missing in action a month after deployment. The piece honors his courage and the ultimate sacrifice he made for his country.
Veteran’s Valor (2006)
At the west entrance to Central Park on Washington Street, a bronze group titled “Veteran’s Valor” depicts five Naperville men who fought in World War II. Between them they earned four Silver Stars, two Distinguished Flying Crosses and three Purple Hearts. Dedicated on Veterans Day 2006, the sculpture stands as a tribute to all Naperville service members, past and present.
9/11 Memorial on the Riverwalk (2003)
Along the Riverwalk between the Municipal Center and the DuPage River, a powerful 9/11 memorial honors the victims of September 11, 2001, and local hero Dan Shanower, a Navy intelligence officer from Naperville who died at the Pentagon. The installation incorporates a 7‑foot, 2,000‑pound steel beam from the World Trade Center, limestone from the Pentagon, and black granite from Pennsylvania. A companion Wall of Faces, 48 feet long, features 130 figures based on drawings by local schoolchildren.
How to Experience the Walk
All six pieces are within easy walking distance of downtown and the train station. Visitors can start at Burlington Square Park, continue east to Veterans Park, head north to North Central College, then loop back through Central Park before finishing at the Riverwalk. An interactive map and audio guides are available at centurywalk-artguide.org for those who prefer a self‑guided tour.
This Veterans Day, take a few moments to pause at one of these artworks, read the names inscribed, and reflect on the brave men and women from our community who answered the call of duty. To all veterans in Naperville and beyond, thank you for your service.
Original reporting: Positively Naperville (Aurora area) — read the source article.
