May 6, 2014 — On a blustery day that had flags whipping around their poles, four teams of Navy volunteers, organized by the Armed Forces YMCA of San Diego, hoisted new flags into place on the Miramar National Cemetery Avenue of Flags.
The Miramar National Cemetery Support Foundation, which sponsors the unique 50-flag display, provides new flags every six months. Used flags are presented to veterans’ groups, patriotic, and civic organizations. Individuals who donate $200 to the Foundation also receive a flag in a wooden presentation case.
Equipment Operator Second Class William Nickeo, a SeaBee attached to Seal Team 5, worked alongside his teammates to change out the flags. “These things are really important, and we should never forget that. Whatever I can do to help my country, I’m there!”
The four two-member teams worked steadily down the long avenue, cranking the old flags down the poles, hooking on the new Stars and Stripes, and hoisting them back into the stiff breeze where they will fly until Nov. 1.
Wayne Louth of World Memorial, a non-profit organization that promotes interest in the American Flag, coordinated the change-out. The entire project was completed in about an hour and a half.
Lorenzo Inzunza, YMCA special events coordinator, offers active duty members a full calendar of opportunities every year to be involved in community projects.
“A project that would take 30 people, ten or 15 of these guys can finish it really quick,” Inzunza said. “They take pride in what they do. Most of the commanding officers know our program, and they support it.”
Construction Mechanic Second Class Shelby Dillman, of Pensacola, Fla., normally would have been building or repairing a structure for Seal Team 5.
“It’s important to remember where you came from, whether as a SeaBee or as a sailor,” she said while hoisting a flag into place. “It’s always good to show respect for those who came before you.”
By Bill Heard
Public Information Officer
Support Foundation
