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On November 9th my wife and I had the honor and pleasure of attending a the dedication of Los Banos' newest park at 2300 North Creekside Drive over by Snow Goose.

Veteran's Memorial Park looks like a great addition to the Los Banos Park System. It is NOT a playground but rather a place to go for some quiet moments or a place to reflect.

Well appointed with two flagpoles surrounded by brick planters and with a memorial plaque on a granite pedestal under a gazebo this park is located right near where the new high school is planned. This too is a good thing as our students may just take some time to reflect upon the sacrifices made by our veterans that allow them to live in a free country.

Here are a few snapshots from the ceremonies:

Opening Ceremony - Salute to the flag and pledge

Though I did not get a photo of her (I was too far away) Ms. Rhonda Lowe sang a WONDERFUL rendition of the Star Spangled Banner.

A Los Banos Fireman who raised the flag


Some of our Los Banos Veterans - VFW members. Forum member Norm Donovan is in the center.

Speeches
The entire city council as well as Mr. Obanion were present to say a few words and thank our vets for their service. I am sorry I did not capture each of them.

Councilmen Tom Faria and Mike Villalta spoke in praise of the vets.

Councilman Sousa spoke also about the people who actually BUILT the park. Folks like these:

Councilwoman Brooks spoke movingly about the veterans including her own grandfather who was present.

Did you know some of our public officials wore a military uniform once upon a time? The head of the fire department Chet Guintini and the mayor Tommy Jones are both veterans.

The ribbon cutting:

Gentlemen who served like this Vietnam Veteran (judging from the campaign ribbon on his hat) listened to a tribute in their honor.

Some of the Los Banos Veterans get a first look at the plaque placed in their honor.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!