The History Of The Famous Camp Atterbury Rock

by
posted on June 13, 2019
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
campatterbury-2020-2.jpg

The “Atterbury Rock” has been a symbol of Camp Atterbury (located near Edinburgh, IN) for well over 70 years. Over the years, this carved rock has become a monument to the troops that have been to the National Guard base and the greatness it represents. The rock was carved over three months during the summer by Libero Puccini (1924-2008), who was an Italian POW. He was in the hospital when his fellow POWs built the famous Camp Atterbury Chapel in the Meadow. (See Puccini pictured at the top of this article, along with the rock he carved that still stands today.)

About carving the eponymous rock at the base entrance, Puccini says, “We could have done it in three days, but we did it over three months. We wanted to stay here. People were bringing us drinks.”

Camp Atterbury Rock
The famed Atterbury Rock as it appears today, not much different than 75 years ago.


The origins of the carving had never been ascertained until Puccini came along. The annual pilgrimage to Indiana from Alabama for the reunion ranked among the highlights of his life. Puccini returned to Camp Atterbury for re-dedication ceremonies each year with his son until his passing in 2008. He made many friends at Camp Atterbury and was accepted by U.S. veterans as an equal, not the enemy.

The National Rifle Association of America plans to reunite the NRA National Matches at Camp Atterbury in 2020 (Pistol, Smallbore and High Power Rifle), along with a new National Marksmanship Competition Center to be housed on site at this Indiana National Guard base in the near future.

Lead photo courtesy of 
Camp Atterbury/ING.

See more: 6 Things You Didn’t Know About Camp Atterbury.

Latest

Bagnolirangebag 1
Bagnolirangebag 1

What’s In Your Range Bag, Colton Bagnoli?

Colton Bagnoli: From SWAT Sniper to Precision Rifle Mentor

NRA National Precision Pistol Championships 2025 Begin At Cardinal Shooting Center In Ohio

The 2025 NRA National Precision Pistol Championships are underway at the Cardinal Shooting Center in Marengo, Ohio—marking a historic first for the venue.

New: Beretta 92X RDO Inox

Beretta’s new 92X RDO Inox fuses classic 90 Series reliability with stainless steel and red-dot optic compatibility.

Smith & Wesson Supercharges Pro Team, Signs Hunter Constantine & Nick ‘PewView’ Johnson

Smith & Wesson signs top shooters Hunter Constantine and Nick Johnson, expanding its pro team with both firepower and fan appeal.

Hillsdale College Halter Center Hosts 2025 WSPS Para Trap Grand Prix

Hillsdale College Halter Center hosted the 2025 WSPS Para Trap Grand Prix, where Sophia Bultema captured silver in a display of athletic skill.

Jerry McDonough Wins 2025 NRA National High Power Long-Range Championship

Jerry McDonough wins 2025 NRA Long-Range title with 1245-73X at Alliance Rifle Club in Ohio.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.