When I designed the Assyrian Martyr’s Monument, I took inspiration from an earlier monument erected in 1919, in Baquba, Iraq by the Government of Great Britain. It was destroyed  in 1920 by Arab Marauders. I wanted something that would honor my father and brother, as well as other Assyrians who were killed simply for being Assyrian.  So I personalized the final design to reflect the personal dedication to my family.  I gave the design to a company that specializes in the installation of marble & granite statues. The base is made of granite from the Eastern coast of the United States.  The monument itself is carved out of marble from Ireland. It stands at 17 feet from base to crown.  I then had the monument installed in Montrose Cemetery, near to where my mother is buried.  It required a crew of 10 men and a crane to complete the installation.  It was installed in a single day in May of 2000. 

Installation of the Monument
May 2000

Opening Ceremony            August 7, 2000     The monument was unveiled and dedicated on August 7, 2000, which is Assyrian Martyr’s day.  It has been the site of an annual ceremony every year since. Qasha Aviqam, of the Ancient Church of Mar Odisho, honored us with his presence and a blessing at the unveiling ceremony
August 7               Assyrian Martyr Memorial Day