February 14, 2019
Volume 49 - No. 07
By Richard “Pete” Peterson
Miramar National Cemetery has been described as beautiful and peaceful. True. It also is the sacred final resting place for many of America’s heroes – veterans of all branches of service – some killed in action, who defended American interests world-wide. On a sunny California day, the Avenue of Flags entrance to Miramar is The Paper - 760.747.7119
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impressive as fifty Stars and Stripes, each representing a state in our Union, billow and snap in the wind. At night, in the golden glow of lights, these flags signify the reverence, quietude and reflection of this hallowed ground.
The somber elegance of a day visit is heightened by white gravestones marching across green grass to the far horizon,
guarded by “The Liberation Monument” a 15-foot-tall, 7ton bronze statue, that depicts a prisoner of war emerging from captivity. More grandeur issues from the 30-foot-tall Veterans Tribute Tower & Carillion that honors the memory of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division in repelling enemy forces from Outpost Harry, in June 1953 during the Korean War. The tower features a 250-pound
bronze bell which tolls the time on the hour and the Carillion plays Westminster chimes on the half-hour, and “Taps” at 5:30 p.m. when Miramar closes for the day. America tends to forget our military once they march off to war, evidently feeling we’re so invincible that none will be killed, wounded or captured. As General Patton said, the aim of the American soldier is not to die for your country but to cause some
San Diego’s National Cemeteries - See Page 2