During the week of May 11 - 16, 2004, more than 4,000 local volunteers gathered at the west entrance to the Salisbury Zoo to build a playground honoring the life of Ben Layton, who died of leukemia at age 4. Ben's dying wish was to receive red angel wings when he went to heaven. Ben's Red Wings was planned by a dedicated group of family and friends, designed by local children, funded by donations from individuals, businesses, and organizations, and built by an army of volunteers. Community volunteers continue to help with the playground's regular upkeep and maintenance each year.