"Symbol of unity and solidarity:" Thanks to effort from FOX6, Eiffel Tower to be erected in Milwaukee
PARIS/MILWAUKEE -- There has been an outpouring of support from around the world for Paris, and the families of the victims killed on Friday, November 13th in a series of terror attacks throughout the city. In addition to the more than 120 killed, 352 people were hurt in the attacks. The victims are being honored in a special way, and that includes here in Milwaukee -- thanks to an effort from FOX6 News.
Landmarks across the world have turned blue, white and red, in a show of solidarity with Paris -- and the families of the victims killed in the terror attacks that ISIS has taken responsibility for.
LAX lit up in solidarity with Paris after terror attacks
The colors of the French flag are illuminating buildings here in Milwaukee as well -- as the Pfister Hotel and the Marcus Center downtown have been lit up.
Buildings lit up in Milwaukee in solidarity with Paris after terror attacks
"It was a barbaric, terrible act," Ed Hanrahan with Open Road Events said.
"I think everyone is just so heavy-hearted. I think we want to be the best partners and supporters. They were incredible supporters of us after 9/11 and we all know how this feels -- to have our homeland invaded by terrorists," Kim Morris said.
Eiffel Tower replica that stands in Milwaukee during Bastille Days
As a tribute, Kim Morris says the East Town Association, along with the city of Milwaukee and Open Road Events will erect a replica of the Eiffel Tower -- which is normally on display during Bastille Days.
The idea was raised mainly in part by FOX6's Brad Hicks -- who started a push on social media, encouraging the community to help pay respects.
"I think it`s going to be very sobering for people that drive by," Morris said.
FOX6's Brad Hicks' post on Facebook post-Paris attacks goes viral
On Sunday morning, November 15th, the group working to make this happen held a planning meeting at a site outside City Hall.
"We`ve already put a base plan together right now -- taking all the measurements," Hanrahan said.
Setting up the replica Eiffel Tower is no easy task -- but it's something that's humbling to have to now tackle -- in the wake of terror attacks that left more than 120 people dead, and more than 350 hurt.
Eiffel Tower replica that stands in Milwaukee during Bastille Days
"Lot of heavy equipment. A lot of labor. A lot of coordination of the current location of the Eiffel Tower and warehouse and getting it down here, electrical power and logistics -- all those other requirements too," Hanrahan said.
"It`s another symbol of unity and solidarity against terrorist acts and that people would stand together and give certainly more thought and certainly more respects to the families that were killed over in France," Hanrahan said.
The goal is to start piecing the Eiffel Tower together first thing Monday morning. The hope is to have the display completed by Tuesday.
We're also told vigils are being planned for this week in Milwaukee to honor the victims of the attacks in Paris. Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett has planned a vigil for Monday evening.
CLICK HERE for complete coverage of the Paris terror attacks via FOX6Now.com.