CLEVELAND – As Marine Week comes to a close, the Corps leaves something to be remembered by.
Behind a thin black tarp is a labor of love, a small token of thanks.
“For the past week, we’ve been working on a mural, painting a mural,” said Sergeant Jeffrey Caraway. “And every day from about [6 a.m. to about 6 p.m.] we’ve been painting in really hot weather.”
Caraway an artist for the United States Marine Corps.
He, along with six other Marines, came together to put together an 8-by-48-foot mural, designed by Staff Sergeant Randy Kirby.
“I’m most proud to be even be given the opportunity to come out here,” said Kirby, who designed the sketch months ago. “I’m proud of the team that came out here with me. They’ve gone above and beyond whatever expected. I’m very happy with the product.”
“I’m proud to be in the City of Cleveland,” Kirby continued. “The mayor came out. He said a few kind words. That meant a lot to me. Everybody here has been more than supportive than us and we appreciate every little bit that we can get.”
Sergeant Major Michael Barrett said it’s the best way they can say thanks to a city that’s been so welcoming to the Corps.
“Every time you drive down this street, and you see this magnificent mural that Staff Sgt. Kirby is about to unveil, remember those who’ve selflessly sacrificed and served for this nation,” Barrett said. “Because 9,300 of them, just for the Marine Corps alone has joined in the last 10 years and they all won’t make it home.
The mural is located at the Cleveland Waste Connections facility at 5600 Carnegie Avenue.