DeKalb in DeKalb County, Illinois — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)

DeKalb Veterans Memorial Mural

What These Boots Have Seen

Photographed by Matthew Stevens, September 12, 2026

1. DeKalb Veterans Memorial Mural Marker

Inscription.
Dear Veterans of DeKalb,
I want to thank each of you for choosing my work as your memorial mural. Having my art represent your stories and sacrifices is an incredible honor. Your bravery and commitment inspire me, and I hope this painting reminds you that you are not alone in your journey.

Together, we can continue to raise awareness about PTSD and support one another. Heroes are human, and it's okay to seek help. Thank you for your service and for allowing me to contribute to your legacy.

With deep appreciation and love,
Mary Gallagher Scout
Artist
Read at mural dedication on August 22, 2024

The original painting was created by artist Mary Gallagher Scout who was inspired by the boots worn by her U.S. Army veteran husband during his tour of duty in Afghanistan.

Erected 2024.

Topics. This memorial is listed in these topic lists: Arts, Letters, Music • Heroes • Military • War, Afghanistan.

Location. 41° 55.844′ N, 88° 45.14′ W. Memorial is in DeKalb, Illinois, in DeKalb County. It is on Palmer Court east of North 2nd Street, on the right when

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traveling east. This marker is located across the street of the Egyptian Threatre in downtown DeKalb. It is to the south of the Frank Van Buer Plaza across Palmer Court. Touch for map. Memorial is in this post office area: Dekalb IL 60115, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this memorial is in Northern Illinois.

It is also in the American Midwest

and in the Corn Belt.

Globally, it is in North America,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture

and also the Northwest Territory.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: City of DeKalb Sesquicentennial (here, next to this marker); Egyptian Theatre (within shouting distance of this marker); City of DeKalb Veterans Memorial (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); DeKalb War Memorial (about 400 feet away); DeKalb World War I Memorial (about 400 feet away); The Winged Ear Logo (about 800 feet away); Jacob Haish (approx. 0.2 miles away); Major General Johann De Kalb White Oak (approx. 0.3

DeKalb Veterans Memorial Mural image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Matthew Stevens, September 12, 2026

2. DeKalb Veterans Memorial Mural

miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in DeKalb.

Credits. This page was last revised on September 23, 2026. It was originally submitted on September 16, 2026, by Matthew Stevens of Washington, Illinois. This page has been viewed 13 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 16, 2026, by Matthew Stevens of Washington, Illinois. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.