Iwo Jima statue replica to be moved to The Colony city hall

A statue honoring veterans brought hundreds to a home in The Colony. It’s now being moved to a more permanent location.

FOX 4 was the first to show you the memorial ahead of July Fourth. Since then, the Iwo Jima Statue replica has been filled with signatures and memories.

The statue now has more than 400 signatures by people who have stopped by to visit. A vote by the city council tonight could keep it on display for years to come.

Tim Hall is counting his blessings in signatures. Every name on his homemade piece of artwork is either a veteran or first responder.

“This was a piece of metal artwork, and now it’s turned into a story book,” he said.

With help from family and coworkers, Hall designed and built a tribute recreation of the Iwo Jima Memorial. It’s made of 12-guage steel.

FOX 4 first interviewed Hall on July 3rd when he displayed the memorial it in front of his home for Independence Day.

“After the story, there was no less than 50 or 60 people in the yard at any given time at all hours of the night,” Hall said. “Since you had said that my wife gives everyone a hug, it was 2 or 3 in the morning. People working third shifts they would say, ‘We’re coming.’ It was great.”

In one week, Hall says more than a thousand people visited the memorial, including the mayor of The Colony.

Mayor Joe McCourry is a marine veteran. He says when he saw how Hall's tribute was bringing the community together, he knew it needed to be preserved.

“He was just tickled to death to know that there’s a possibility of giving this a home in the city for everybody to enjoy and continue to enjoy,” the mayor said.

With approval from the city council, McCourry wants to display the tribute at the city’s executive building where the American Legion meets. Hall is thrilled.

“I think it’s important that everyone use their gifts for what's next,” Hall said. “I’m excited where that could lead.”

The mayor expects his proposal to be approved.

Hall says the positive response has been one of the most rewarding experiences of his life.