The Ski Trooper Bronze Sculpture - 2023 Photograph

Description

"The Ski Trooper" bronze sculpture concept was inspired by 10th Mountain Division veteran Donald E. Traynor. Based upon the bronze sculpture by Victor Issa, “The Ski Trooper” was created by Colorado artist Scott Stearman. The 12 ½ feet tall, 7000-pound Ski Trooper sculpture is found near the Covered Bridge in the Slifer Plaza located at the heart of Vail Village. The artwork is curated by the Town of Vail's Art in Public Places collection coordinator Molly Eppard. The sculpture honors World War II troops from the 10th Mountain Division who trained in winter warfare at Camp Hale in Eagle County, Colorado. Several 10th Mountain Division veterans were instrumental in shaping skiing history and ski area development of North America. This image was captured by Ricki Shaw Sherlin, Regent of the Vail-based 10th Mountain Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). Placing holiday wreaths on veteran's memorials or gravestones is one of this chapter’s service activities.