As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, there’s no better time to reflect on the people who shaped, defended, and served our communities. Across Pottawattamie County, local heroes are honored in meaningful and artistic ways, inviting visitors to connect national history with hometown pride.
Follow the Stars & Bronze Tribute Trail
The Stars & Bronze Tribute Trail offers a self-guided journey through each town in Pottawattamie County, encouraging you to get outdoors, explore the county’s beauty, and honor the veterans and first responders whose service helped preserve the freedoms we celebrate today.
Since 2007, communities throughout the county have raised funds to ensure every town features an Eagles of Honor—a hand-crafted bronze eagle sculpture honoring all military veterans and their families. Each eagle is unique, offering its own interpretation of honor and sacrifice. These powerful sculptures were created by Neola, Iowa artist Russell Christensen. Visitors can explore the names and locations of all statues through the Eagle of Honor listing!
In Chautauqua Park in Oakland, the Pottawattamie Freedom Rock honors four local veterans. Painted in 2017 by artist Ray “Bubba” Sorensen, the rock is part of Iowa’s statewide Freedom Rock Tour, which placed a unique commemorative artwork in each of the state’s 99 counties to honor veterans.
Bayliss Park’s Veterans Plaza features names of service members from all branches of the military who made the ultimate sacrifice. Sculpted by renowned artist John Lajba, the plaza stands as a powerful tribute to courage across generations.
The First Responder Public Safety Plaza honors those who serve on the front lines at home. Lifesize bronze statues represent members of the fire, sherrif's and police department, highway patrol, and 911 call center. A walkway, symbolizing the 911 call center, guides visitors through the space.
Another stop is the Deputy Mark Burbridge Memorial, located outside the Historic Squirrel Cage Jail. The striking blue horse honors Deputy Burbridge, who was killed in the line of duty in 2017 during an attempted jail escape. Covered in imagery important to him—including motorcycles and a sheriff’s badge, the memorial serves as a deeply personal tribute to service and sacrifice.
All Aboard for Railroad Days
This year’s Celebrate CB festivities (May 3–9) are packed with excitement, highlighted by Railroad Days, a special tribute to National Train Day on May 10. Throughout the week, visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of train-themed activities that celebrate Council Bluffs’ historic role in the nation’s railroad legacy. From hands-on interactive exhibits and historic locomotive rides to scenic trolley tours and educational demonstrations, there’s something to delight guests of all ages.
Railroad Days isn’t just about the rides—it’s a chance to step back in time and experience the sights, sounds, and stories of the railroads that helped shape this region. Families can enjoy engaging activities designed for kids, while rail enthusiasts can marvel at historic engines and learn about the city’s pivotal connection to America’s rail network. The week of festivities builds up to the Celebrate CB Parade on May 9, a lively celebration featuring marching bands, floats, and plenty of hometown spirit.
The Wall That Heals: A Powerful Memorial Day Tribute
Coming Memorial Day weekend 2026, Pottawattamie County will host The Wall That Heals, a moving traveling memorial honoring those who served during the Vietnam War. Displayed at Lewis Central High School from May 22–25, the three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial offers a deeply personal space for reflection, featuring engraved names, opportunities for name rubbings, and a mobile Education Center sharing stories, artifacts, and local connections. Open 24 hours a day and free to the public, this powerful tribute invites visitors to pause, remember, and honor the sacrifices that have shaped our nation—an especially meaningful experience as America commemorates 250 years of history. For more information about The Wall That Heals, visit our blog here.
Lake Manawa Fireworks
Celebrate the Fourth of July with a bang at Lake Manawa—where fireworks, hometown pride, and community spirit light up the sky. This beloved Independence Day tradition brings friends, families, and neighbors together for a first-class fireworks show made possible entirely through local support.
The Lake Manawa Fireworks organization works year-round to raise funds, partner with a professional fireworks provider, and coordinate with local agencies—including police, fire, sheriff’s offices, state patrol, county health, and the DNR—to ensure a safe and memorable celebration. From communications to coordination, this dedicated group keeps the tradition alive, creating a sky-high reminder of the freedom, unity, and pride we celebrate each Fourth of July.
Defenders of Freedom Air & Space Show
As part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration, Offutt Air Force Base near Bellevue will welcome the public back for the Defenders of Freedom Air & Space Show on August 8 and 9. This free, high-flying event marks the show’s return after a multi-year pause caused by historic flooding, the global pandemic, and runway reconstruction. Featuring thrilling aerial performances and a salute to those who defend our freedoms, the air show adds an unforgettable, patriotic highlight to America’s 250th birthday in the region.
A Meaningful Way to Celebrate America
Together, the memorials, statues, and plazas reflect the passion Pottawattamie County holds for honoring those who have given so much. After a day of exploration and reflection, unwind with a relaxing stay at a Council Bluffs hotel. While you’re here, experience even more of what the region has to offer. Walk across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge over the “Big Mo,” explore local dining and nightlife on the Historic 100 Block of West Broadway, and discover additional historic sites throughout the county. Curious about Council Bluffs’ past? Dive deeper into our history page to explore the stories and landmarks that helped shape our community. Let America 250 be your invitation to explore, remember, and celebrate!
