July 17, 2008
The building was turned over to the City of La Crosse in December 2007 in as-is condition. The building was completely vacated with only minimal items left inside such as some telephones and some “in” baskets. The Navy Reserve Oversight Committee removed many of the plaques and similar items that were in the center and placed them in a safe location.
As you may have heard, our anchor, which the Navy did not own, was removed from the site without our knowledge. We have been told it is in some storage building in the Twin Cities. We are still trying to locate it and have it returned. If anyone is in that area and would be willing to help with finding it, please contact Alderman/Committee Chairman, Tom Sweeney, EN1, USNR-Ret. at (608) 788-1274 or email him at
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The City turned off all the utilities to the building, so as not to have those expenses put on the taxpayer. Even with that, the Fire Department has been doing a lot of training inside the building including extractions and other practical training. Subsequently, there are a number of major holes in the walls, and the like. So, even though it’s vacated, our Fire Fighters are getting some important training inside the building. We hope that is some consolation to know that the building is still being used for important training.
As the Alderman of the district that the Reserve Center is in, at the bequest of the Public Works Department, I introduced a resolution to put out for bid to have the building salvaged/demolished prior to this winter setting in. The City has apparently found some money and the Council takes up the issue in August 2008. It will be part of my desire that we can salvage some of the hardwood flooring in the center to cut into pieces to sell as fundraising for the Memorial. If anyone has other interests concerning this salvage/demolition, please contact Tom Sweeney.
Please frequent this site to stay up on the building and property and watch for events scheduled to take place there, prior to demolition, especially with winter just around the corner.