Benches Memorialize Military’s Commitment to Duty, Honor, Country
Three granite benches engraved with the U.S. Armed Forces’ commitment to Duty, Honor, Country have been installed at the foot of the Veterans Tribute Tower & Carillon at Miramar National Cemetery.
“The benches provide an opportunity for those visiting the cemetery to pause in comfort while they reflect on the sacrifices of those who served our country,” said Cathy Fiorelli, Foundation President and CEO. “We want to thank those individuals, charitable organizations, and corporations who have contributed to the important work of the Foundation in providing these enhancements to the cemetery.”
Also placed at the foot of the tower is a pedestal dedicated to soldiers of the U.S. 3rd Infantry Division who fought in the June, 1953, Battle of Outpost Harry during the Korean War, and honoring all veterans of the Armed Forces.
In the near future, the pedestal will be engraved with the words:
“Freedom is not Free/This bell rings for all members of the Armed Services who remain unaccounted for and never returned home/Remember – Lest We Forget.”
The carillon tower, which stands on a knoll on the north side of the cemetery, was dedicated on Veterans’ Day, 2016. It was funded by generous donations from the Bob Baker Family Foundation, and from individuals, charitable organizations, and corporate donors.
The benches, like the carillon tower and the Avenue of Flags, are sponsored and maintained by the Miramar National Cemetery Support Foundation. No government funds were expended for any of these enhancements to the cemetery.
