WASHINGTON, D.C. – Montana’s Congressman, Denny Rehberg, today announced a public rally in support of an historically significant World War II statue of Jesus on Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana.  The statue, which has been there for nearly 60 years, has become the subject of some controversy after a Wisconsin based organization objected to a special use permit renewal on the 25’ by 25’ parcel of U.S. Forest Service land.  After it was determined it may be eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, the Forest Service agreed to delay a decision until it had taken public comment.

“The Veterans Jesus Memorial has united Democrats and Republicans, Christians, Jews and Atheists, even skiers and snowboarders in support of this important piece of the local culture,” said Rehberg.  “That’s because it stands for so much.  It’s not just a statue of Jesus, but a memorial of appreciation for the veterans who fought to make this country free.  It’s a meeting place in the middle of a day of skiing and a place for quiet contemplation overlooking the valley below.  And on Thursday, it’s going to be a rallying point for the Whitefish community.”

Rehberg first brought attention to the controversy last month when he sent a letter to the Forest Service asking them to reconsider their denial of the permit extension.  He became aware of the situation when he visited local businesses in the Flathead County region in September.

Veterans Jesus Rally Details:
When: Thursday, November 10 at 1:00 PM
Where: Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 276, 20 Baker Avenue, Whitefish, Montana
Who: Congressman Denny Rehberg, members of the public, press