Rehberg starts web page to collect comments on Jesus statue

Rep. Denny Rehberg has launched a new web page to help facilitate public response to a pending Forest Service decision regarding the World War II era statue of Jesus on Big Mountain in Whitefish. 

The statue, which has been there for nearly 60 years, was determined to be eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

“We’re not out of the woods yet, and it’s more important than ever for the Forest Service to hear from the public regarding the permit extension for the World War II Memorial statue of Jesus on Big Mountain,” said Rehberg, who contacted Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell and Northern Region Director Leslie Weldon asking them to reconsider the recent lease denial for the monument. 

“With the public outcry over this, we were able to get the original denial reversed.  While this delayed the decision, it’s only temporary, and there’s more work to be done.”

Rehberg launched “VeteransJesus.com” for public comment on the historical and cultural significance of the WWII memorial, which was erected by Montana WWII veterans after returning from alpine duty in Europe.  Rehberg will submit those comments to the Forest Service, which has yet to determine the schedule for a public comment period.

“I know the Whitefish community appreciates the support it’s getting from around the country,” said Rehberg. “We’ll continue to work with other stakeholders to determine a possible historical preservation listing, and with a strong enough public voice, and a little common-sense out of the federal government, Big Mountain skiers will be able enjoy the mountain with the Jesus statue as a symbol of freedom over-looking Montana.”