Vice Admiral Francis X. McInerney
- Bronze
- Joel Turner
“Vice Admiral Francis X. McInerney” is a part of the Capitol Avenue Bronze public art collection . . donated to the City of Cheyenne by private individuals, organizations or companies.
Cheyenne native Francis Xavier McInerney (1899-1956) was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy in 1917 and retired from service in 1955, with the rank of Vice Admiral. During his naval career, McInerney was awarded the Navy Cross, a Silver Star, a Bronze Star, and several additional citations and letters of commendation. In 1951, McInerney was awarded the Legion of Merit medal for service as the commander of destroyers engaged in rescuing crewmen of the USS Helena, which was sunk in 1943.
Upon his death in 1956, the Secretary of the Navy, wrote the following tribute: “[Vice-Admiral McInerney] will be remembered by the naval service as one of our most courageous leaders. During his remarkable career, he was awarded numerous citations for outstanding performances of duty during operations against the enemy in World War II and the Korean Conflict. It is men such as he who, by leadership and devotion to duty, provide a reservoir of inspiration and strength for those who follow.”
Cheyenne residents Diane McInerney White and Catherine McInerney Murray are great-nieces of Vice-Admiral McInerney. They and their brother, John T. McInerney, sponsored this bronze in memory of their great uncle. Diane’s husband, Daniel E. White, and Catherine’s husband, Edward F. Murray, III, are also sponsors of this bronze. Catherine Murray is a member of the Capitol Avenue Bronze Commission.
This bronze was sculpted by Joel Turner, who worked with nationally renowned sculptor George Lundeen. Joel designed this bronze to accurately depict Vice Admiral McInerney’s likeness, uniform, and insignia. Joel sculpted McInerney’s appearance, including his height, body build, and stance from several existing photographs. The sculpture is intended to convey a sense of Vice Admiral McInerney’s leadership and courage.
To learn more about the Capitol Avenue Bronze Project, visit this link . For more information about each artist, sponsoring a bronze, or becoming a donor/supporter at any level, please contact Harvey Deselms at Deselms Fine Art, located at 303 E. 17th Street Cheyenne. Email is [email protected] or call at 307 432 0606
- Current Location: Capitol Avenue and 18th Street - Capitol Ave & 18th St. Cheyenne, WY 82001 (google map)
- Collections: Capitol Avenue Bronzes