In The Aviator (Charlottesville, Virginia), how is the History discussed?
The sculpture is a bronze statue commissioned in honor of University alumnus, James Rogers McConnell’s heroism and courage in World War I, as a member of the Lafayette Escadrille.
The Aviator was designed by Gutzon Borglum and dedicated in 1919.  
The sculpture measures 12 feet high and 8 feet, 6 inches wide.It is located in front of Clemons Library on the grounds of the University of Virginia.  Due to the library's abundant 24-hour study space available for students, The Aviator is a fixture in everyday life at the University.It is an athletic male nude with his feet placed shoulder width apart, knees slightly bent and arms outstretched supporting a pair of wings.  The blade/knife; dirk or possible dagger/stiletto the figure has in his sheath is a recognized symbol of masculinity.It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
Gutzon Borglum National Register of Historic Places sculpture Virginia James Rogers McConnell University of Virginia Lafayette Escadrille