Notebook
September 20th, 2019 by Gary Osberg

Building an art monument to honor our veterans requires dedication, commitment and a team to get the job done. It takes an artist willing to spend the time researching, designing and creating the paintings. It takes a committed group of individuals to share the dream and it takes donors to make it come true!

The Veterans Art Monument was commissioned by the Minnesota State Veterans Memorial Association and consists of five 8’ X 10’ oil paintings; each paying tribute to the men and women of the five branches of the U.S. Military: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. The artist, Charles Gilbert Kapsner, a native of Little Falls, studied in the studio of Nerina Simi in Florence, Italy.  He has spent the last 10 years working on what he says is perhaps the most impactful project of his career.

All five of the paintings are complete and are installed in the Committal Hall at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery north of Little Falls. The paintings tell the story of each branch of service, commemorating the sacrifices of all who have served. Besides being a memorial to our nation’s military men and women, the paintings are educational tools which will help citizens and future generations to understand the vital role that the U.S. Military plays in maintaining our freedom and democracy. There are 24” x 29” prints available for purchase.  My coffee buddy Phil and I donated a print of the U.S. Navy painting to the American Legion in St. Joseph. Both of our fathers served in the Pacific Theater during the second World War. It is hanging in the meeting room. You can contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print of any or all of paintings.   

This Sunday, September 22nd,  at 2pm,  there will be a dedication of the granite monument honoring both Veterans and donors. The monument is located outside of the Committal Hall.  I have attached a press release and I hope that you can make it to the ceremony.   


“Millions of men and women have served. Many were wounded in battle. Many died to keep us free. The least that we can do is to remember them.”  Jack Peck  Veteran U.S. Navy 

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