Richard Kron of Brockport works on a commissioned wood carving, a rendition of a poignant Associated Press photograph taken in New York City as recovery efforts were getting underway following the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center. The finished piece will include three life-sized figures raising the American flag and will be the centerpiece of a memorial monument planned for the triangle of land in front of Capen Hose No. 4 at Main Street and Park Avenue, Brockport. The station is also home to the Fire Museum and several restored pieces of apparatus.

A copy of the photo which is serving as the inspiration for the memorial is shown on the wall at the center of the photo at right.

Using a chain saw, Kron carves details into eight foot tall white oak logs, bringing life to the medium, in what will become a sculpture representing the heroism and sacrifice of firefighters, police personnel and rescue workers alike.

Brockport Fire Department Historian David (Scott) Warthman suggested the idea, and with department approval, asked Kron to begin the project. He’s dropped other projects in order to devote his time to the task of carving the three figures. Kron said he expects it will take him four to six months to finish and he plans to incorporate many details in the completed piece.

Kron, shown working on the middle figure of the sculpture in his East Avenue, Brockport studio, started working with chain saws about four years ago. Many of his pieces were created “on location” during past summers at Sodoma Farm Market on Route 31. Westside News Inc. will keep readers updated on the project in future editions.

Photos by Walter Horylev