A special Memorial Day tribute was given to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for America’s freedom at the Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum in Vista, CA. This is the third year an 11,000 sq. ft. American flag was created in the fields at the museum grounds. This is the largest American Flag West of the Mississippi river. Many volunteers worked the week leading up to Memorial Day by measuring and spray painting red, white and blue. Hot Dogs, chips and soda were provided to all that attended before the event started.
The Invocation was given by Terry Woods of the North County Daily Star. The Presentation of the Colors was presented by the Young Marines, then the crowd stood for the National Anthem played by a five piece Brass Ensemble from the Rancho Buena Vista High School Band and the Pledge of Allegiance. Then the Host, Fred Ashman, told the story of the last flight west and missing man formations as two aircraft pilots, Retired Brigadier General Randy Ball and Retired Army pilot George Watson, performed a flyover inbound at call from west to east. The aircrafts split formation then headed west as Taps was played. It was a very moving moment for all as everyone sang ‘America the Beautiful’.
