T-R PHOTO BY MIKE DONAHEY A portion of a sidewalk extending from the F-4 Jet at Marshalltown’s American Legion Post is pictured Thursday. Rain has delayed installation of more cement and other features of the project, coordinator Kevin Huseboe of Marshalltown said. When complete, the sidewalk will connect the jet to the Marshall County Freedom Rock.

“Rain, rain, go away, come again some other day.”

The popular children’s nursery rhyme has special meaning for local resident Kevin Huseboe.

The U.S. Army veteran is project manager of an initiative to install a sidewalk, benches and lighting from the Marshall County Freedom Rock to the iconic Phantom F-4 jet.

Huseboe said Thursday recent rains has significantly slowed the installation of the 495-feet, nine-foot wide, handicap accessible sidewalk. Contractor Rick Weitzell of Le Grand has had limited good weather conditions to install one half of the sidewalk.

“We now expect the project to be completed on or about June 8,” Huseboe said. “There are other factors beyond our control which will delay other segments of the project.”

He and other Legionnaires have invested more than two years of planning, coordination and fundraising to make the project a reality.

“We are grateful for the contributions received from the business community and individuals,” Huseboe said last year.

He cited local businesses JBS and Mechdyne as making significant contributions.

Also saluted was the American Legion Auxiliary. Huseboe said the need to install a sidewalk grew from many comments made by residents and visitors.

“For example, residents from the Iowa Veterans Home visiting the Freedom Rock cannot take their wheelchairs over the grass to the F-4 jet.”

American Legion Commander Randy Kessler said he is excited about the project, and how it will enhance both attractions. The Freedom Rock was dedicated July 4, 2016.

Fellow veteran Ron Estabrook worked at fundraising more than two years before the project was complete.

“The Freedom Rock is one of the top visitor destinations in Marshalltown,” local Convention & Visitors Bureau Director Val Ruff said. “It is a must-see attraction whether one is here for a bus tour, a meeting or convention, or just traveling around the state to see other Freedom Rocks. We are proud to have the Freedom Rock and the surrounding enhancements. We hear many positive comments on the scenic location coupled with American Legion Golf course, Post 46 and F-4 Phantom Fighter Jet.”

For more information, contact Huseboe at 641-751-8954. To make a donation, send a check to

American Legion Riders Memorial Sidewalk, 1301 S. Sixth St., Marshalltown, Iowa 50158.

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Contact Mike Donahey at

641-753-6611 or

mdonahey@timesrepublican.com