Lake Mills, Iowa. The important influence of the Norwegian immigrants is celebrated in many parts of the North Central US. North and South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin all have museums dedicated to the Norwegian heritage and their settling in these areas in the late 1800s through early 1900s. I remember the stories, Bud, of your Grandfather coming to this area before moving to Saskatchewan. Those stories helped make this area and these acts of respect more relevant for me. Here is an example of one communities' tribute. I met the husband and grandson of the woman who spearheaded the effort to erect this statue and create a mini-park. They were doing some maintenance on the bricks, but were kind enough to move their tools so I could get these pics.






These are called Freedom Rocks and this artist is painting one for every county in Iowa (99, I believe) and has completed around 70 so far. While the tribute to women who served in the Civil War, WWI & II, Korea and Vietnam, isn't one of the official county stones, it completes the intent of honouring those who have served. It sits at the Iowa welcome centre, picturesque information centre designed in the shape of a typical dairy farm from the turn of the 20th century.





This is the veteran's park in Lake Mills. Again a fitting tribute to veterans from Iowa. This is one of the "official" freedom stones. They often have dedications to veterans who have gone on to serve their country after their military service.












 Hey Bud, Not Lyle E. Larson, but close!. :)





Another fine place to boondock, just a few miles from Mills Lake. This is a boat launch on a nearby Rice Lake. Added 2 more birds to my life list. While I was here, about a dozen Great Egrets paid a visit.



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