Those walking on St Louis' Art Hill in Forest Park Aug. 4 might have noticed something out of place that day: 1,000 hand-folded, origami paper cranes beneath the St. Louis Art Museum.
The STL Crane Project’s mission is simple: a one-day memorial for fallen first responders, such as police officers, firefighters, paramedics and EMTs. One thousand paper cranes may seem odd but there’s a reason for this number: According to Japanese legend, folding 1,000 paper cranes will cause a wish to come true. The wish is for fallen for first responders to be remembered and for those still alive and in the line of duty to remain safe.
At the end of the one-day memorial, people may adopt a crane for $10. All donations will go to The BackStoppers, a greater St. Louis organization that provides financial and emotional support to families of first responders who have died on duty.
From the STL Crane Project director, Rick Ruderer:
"1000 Origami Cranes or Senbazuru has many meanings. For the STL Crane project they represent a memorial to those who have fallen protecting our community, a pledge to their families and a wish for peace. We hope that this installation reminds us of the sacrifices of our first responders and their families. Legend has it that folding 1000 cranes will cause a wish to come true. Our wish is simple, that our first responders remain safe and that St. Louis never forgets those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. It is believed that having a crane will bring luck and prosperity. For that reason these special cranes will be available for adoption at the end of the installation for a $10.00 donation with all proceeds going to The BackStoppers.
