The Infantryman was unveiled on Eubanks Field in May 1960 and moved in 1964 to a place of honor in front of the new Infantry School Building at Fort Benning. Designed as a constant reminder and inspiration to all who came there, it depicts the classic pose of the Infantry squad leader: powerful, dynamic, alert, weapon in hand, leading his men forward as the dominant and decisive figure on the battlefield. The original statue was restored and placed there in 2009 as the centerpiece of the new National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center to honor all Infantry Soldiers. Its creation and initial placement were carried out under General Paul L. Freeman, Jr., who approved the project in spring 1959; Colonel John M. Woestenburg, Post Ordnance Officer and project supervisor; Specialist Fourth Class Manfred Bass, chief sculptor and material designer; Specialist Fourth Class Karl Von Krog, responsible for molding and casting; and Officer Candidate Eugene Wyles, who posed for the statue.