General Dwight D Eisenhower Statue

This impressive bronze statue of General Dwight D. Eisenhower is located at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum.   Standing confidently in his familiar World War II “Ike jacket”, the statue captures the image that millions of Americans came to associate with the Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force during the Second World War.

Created by sculptor Robert L. Dean, the bronze statue was presented to the Eisenhower Presidential Library by the Harry and Edith Derby Foundation.  It was dedicated on June 15, 1985, honoring the military leader whose calm determination helped guide the Allied forces to victory in Europe.  Rather than portraying him as President, the artist chose to depict Eisenhower in the uniform of the general who accepted Germany’s unconditional surrender in May 1945 and led one of the largest military operations in history, the D-Day invasion of Normandy.

The choice of the simple field jacket is especially meaningful. Unlike the ornate uniforms often associated with military leaders, the “Ike jacket” became a symbol of Eisenhower’s practical leadership and his ability to relate to the soldiers he commanded.  It reflected the qualities for which he was administered throughout his life: humility, discipline, and steady leadership during one of history’s most challenging times.  

The statue stands on the grounds of Eisenhower Presidential Library, museum and Boyhood home in Abilene, Kansas.   Established by Congress in 1966. It preserves Eisenhower’s childhood home, presidential papers, military artifacts and museum exhibits that trace his remarkable journey from a small town Kansas boy to Supreme Allied Commander and the 34th President of the United States.  The museum provides a deeper understanding of the decisions he faced during World War II, the Cold War, and his presidency.

Following the war, Eisenhower’s life took another remarkable turn.  He served as the first Supreme Commander of NATO before being elected the 34th President of the United States in 1952.   During his two terms in office. he oversaw the creation of the Interstate Highway System, promoted scientific advancement during the early years of the Space Age and sought to maintain peace during the  tense years of the Cold War.  Few Americans have served their country with distinction in both military and civilian leadership as Eisenhower did.

While visiting this library, I found myself reflecting on the extraordinary journey of a young man from Abilene, Kansas, who rose to command the Allied armies and later became President of the United States.  This statue captures Eisenhower’s military accomplishments as well as the quiet confidence that defined his life of service to the nation.