Anchor for Veterans' Park arrives in Clovis

CLOVIS — The U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command dropped anchor in Clovis on Monday.

The historic piece probably won't get too wet in this climate, but it may have some admirers. It is big and rusty and now residing at the Parks and Recreation Department on Sycamore Street.

It apparently needs some TLC before it relocates to Veterans' Park in May. When the forklift takes it to the site, the anchor will be lowered onto a concrete slab bearing a plaque. The plaque will remind all who see it that it comes from the U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command.

On the state level, it cost New Mexico taxpayers $5,000, but nobody actually bought it. The two- to three-ton cast iron tribute is "on loan" for five years. At the end of this period, the lease may be renewed. It is unclear what will happen if the navy or the federal government declines to renew in 2022.

When asked why New Mexico taxpayers should pay $5,000 to borrow a 10-foot anchor from the Naval History and Heritage Command, District 64 state Rep. Randall Crowder called it a "capital outlay" and pointed out that the local restoration is being financed by donations instead of tax money. He also said it would beautify the west side park and represent the Navy beside the air force F-111 and Army tank. Of course the anchor will look better after the rust is scraped off, and it gets that battleship gray facelift.

The restoration of the anchor is 16-year-old James Burroughes' eagle scout project. James is the son of Clovis Assistant City Manager Claire Burroughes, who mentioned how nice it is when professional and personal can intersect like this.

The plan is to have the new monument in place by Memorial Day.