Vega & Zerebny Memorial Statues
Donation protected
On October 8, 2016, our fellow Palm Springs Police Officers Gil Vega and Lesley Zerebny were taken from us. To commemorate their lives and sacrifices, I have sculpted their likenesses to be made into bronze statues. These 12-inch figures are accurate in detail and particularly poignant in their depiction of our fallen heroes. The statues deserve the place of honor within the lobby of the station where all visitors can bear witness to the sacrifices made by officers everywhere, every day.
Along with my long career as a police officer, I have been a lifelong artist and sculptor, creating western and classic horror subjects. My law enforcement experience has given me insight into the relationship that exists between fellow officers. As such, I created a scene to depict that interaction. The statues’ working title is “The FTO”, since few realize Gil was formerly Lesley’s field training officer prior to her going on her own. I intentionally positioned Gil leaning in as if to listen to Lesley and offer his experience and guidance. Each figure displays the smile and pleasant demeanor we all recognize from these dedicated officers. The sculpted base of each statue features the PSPD patch and designated call sign for each officer.
The project has proven to be costly. I have borne all material and labor costs which has been my honor to do so. To have the clay sculptures made into bronze will require a professional foundry at an estimated cost of $4,000. For this reason, I must ask for help from family, friends, co-workers, brothers & sisters in law enforcement and members of our community to help fund this. As a donor, you essentially become a part of this memorial project. If the fundraising efforts exceed the goal amount, all money will be used to make more bronze statues for the family members. Any remaining funds will be provided to the Palm Springs Police Officers Memorial Foundation to manage as they see fit.
I have set up a Go Fund Me account and ask our Facebook followers to please help and to re-post it to your own followers so it reaches as many as possible. With all of your help, this fitting tribute can be realized. I thank you for your consideration in aiding this worthy cause.
Marc Melanson
Police Sergeant
Palm Springs Police Department (Retired)
Along with my long career as a police officer, I have been a lifelong artist and sculptor, creating western and classic horror subjects. My law enforcement experience has given me insight into the relationship that exists between fellow officers. As such, I created a scene to depict that interaction. The statues’ working title is “The FTO”, since few realize Gil was formerly Lesley’s field training officer prior to her going on her own. I intentionally positioned Gil leaning in as if to listen to Lesley and offer his experience and guidance. Each figure displays the smile and pleasant demeanor we all recognize from these dedicated officers. The sculpted base of each statue features the PSPD patch and designated call sign for each officer.
The project has proven to be costly. I have borne all material and labor costs which has been my honor to do so. To have the clay sculptures made into bronze will require a professional foundry at an estimated cost of $4,000. For this reason, I must ask for help from family, friends, co-workers, brothers & sisters in law enforcement and members of our community to help fund this. As a donor, you essentially become a part of this memorial project. If the fundraising efforts exceed the goal amount, all money will be used to make more bronze statues for the family members. Any remaining funds will be provided to the Palm Springs Police Officers Memorial Foundation to manage as they see fit.
I have set up a Go Fund Me account and ask our Facebook followers to please help and to re-post it to your own followers so it reaches as many as possible. With all of your help, this fitting tribute can be realized. I thank you for your consideration in aiding this worthy cause.
Marc Melanson
Police Sergeant
Palm Springs Police Department (Retired)
Organizer
Marc Melanson Sr.
Organizer
Cathedral City, CA