Marathon Pundit: Happy birthday "Dutch," Reagan lifeguard statue design unveiled

On the 103rd anniversary of his birth, a design for a new Ronald Reagan statue was unveiled today in Dutch's hometown, Dixon, Illinois.

Reagan was a lifeguard for seven years in Dixon's Lowell Park on the Rock River--the future president saved 77 lives.

From WQAD-TV:

Thursday's rendering unveiling reveals Reagan’s personality and presence. This will be a seven-foot tall bronze sculpture. It will capture his lifeguard days in Dixon.

"Usually he's in a business suit, presidential," said artist Gary Tillery. "This was the earlier Reagan. He was young, vibrant and athletic."

Making the project a reality will take corporate and community donors. Volunteers will hold a variety of events. They hope to complete the statue by 2015.

Author outside Dixon

They'll eventually place the $200,000 project in Lowell Park. I'’s where young Dutch Reagan taught swimming and saved lives.