Colonel Neel E. Kearby Memorial Statue Moving

The Colonel Neel E. Kearby Memorial Statue and Texas State Historical Marker are moving to a new location in Arlington, part of a new downtown development that includes a new Central Library and a proposed mixed use development on the site of the current library.

Demolition of the current library is expected to start within the next few months with construction on the new site beginning this summer.

The new 80,000 square foot library will have space for a children 's area, main service area, meeting/conference rooms, staff services, Arlington Reads, a teen 's area, local history area, reference spaces and much more.

In preparation for the construction, the statue of Col. Kearby was removed Wednesday from the west lawn of the George W. Hawkes Central Library in Downtown Arlington.

On Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010, the City of Arlington paid lasting tribute to the only serviceman from The American Dream City to receive the Medal of Honor, which is the highest military accolade a soldier can earn.

With 22 aerial victories, he became the highest-scoring Thunderbolt pilot in the Pacific Theater.

During his military career, Kearby received two Silver Stars, four Distinguished Flying Crosses, five Air Medals and the Purple Heart.

Kearby 's final mission took place on March 5, 1944, when he was killed in action near Wewak, New Guinea, after downing an enemy bomber.

He was buried at Hillcrest Memorial Cemetery in Dallas on July 23, 1949.

For now, the statue will be held at the Central Express Library on 200 N. Cooper St.

While the statue will be held at the Central Express Library on 200 N. Cooper St, once construction is complete it will be part of the new Central Library complex. The exact location of a permanent home for the statue will be determined in consultation with Arlington City Council.