The American Friends Service Committee continues their efforts for creating awareness for the loss of life in the Iraq War, despite the fact that today’s planned exhibit was rained out. Eyes Wide Open is an exhibit that focuses on Illinois soldiers and Iraqi civilians killed in the Iraq War. State Coordinator Cindy Shar-Schmidt says the public must be aware.

“The main goal is To show the stark reality of war. Show the human cost of the current conflict – there are people dying, both soldiers and civilians on both sides and this is one of the consequences of war.”

The event also serves as a memorial, featuring pairs of empty combat boots to represent the Illinois service men and women killed in Iraq. This year there were 105, compared to 76 last year.