Gen. Darby monument unveiled in Fort Smith (with video)

To the roar of motorcycle engines echoing Saturday, U.S. Army Rangers and the Fort Smith community swarmed Cisterna Park downtown for the unveiling of a statue honoring famed war hero Gen. William O. Darby.

Founder of the modern day Rangers, Darby was praised by a parade of speakers before his 7-foot tall, 1,300-pound bronze statue was uncovered for the public.

"Thank you, Fort Smith, for welcoming him back in triumph," the late general's nephew, Darby Watkins, said after commending sculptor Kevin Kresse of Little Rock for "absolutely nailing" his uncle's image and personality. "When I look at that statue, I see a precocious boy with a wicked grin and lust for life."

Described Saturday as "a man who made a mark on the world while never forgetting his roots," Darby was born in Fort Smith on Feb. 8, 1911. He graduated from Fort Smith High School, then the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.

During World War II, Darby formed the "Darby's Rangers," which distinguished themselves in combat from North Africa to Europe.

During his career, Darby received three Purple Hearts, two Distinguished Service Crosses, the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit, the Russian Order of Kutuzov and the French Croix de Guerre. He was killed in action April 30, 1945, at Torbole, Italy.

Saturday's unveiling was held in conjunction with the second annual Steel Horse motorcycle rally on the 71st anniversary of Darby's death at age 34.

The effort was spearheaded three years ago by retired Ranger Joe Armstrong and his wife, Liz, who founded the General Darby Legacy Project to plan and raise funds. After Saturday's ceremony, Liz Armstrong said she was simply "proud" but "relieved."

Kresse, who has family ties to Fort Smith, said he hopes the statue "provides a sense of pride" for the city. Retired Arkansas National Guard Maj. Gen. William Wofford told the crowd he was proud to be a Ranger.

"We stick together," he said. "It's a brotherhood. Being a Ranger is a way of life."

Others in attendance were Darren McKinney, Darby Junior High School principal and chairman of the Darby Legacy Project, Sebastian County Circuit Court Judge Jim Spears, Rangers from all eras and Mayor Sandy Sanders, who accepted the monument's title on behalf of the city.

Darby is buried at the National Cemetery in Fort Smith.