The City of Temecula is proud to unveil the Fallen Heroes Memorial at the Ribbon Cutting on Thursday,November 8, 2018 at 10:00 am at the Temecula Duck Pond(28250 Ynez Road). The unique sculpture, by local artist Austin Casson, features a battlefield cross cast in bronze and a steel tower supporting a life-size bald eagle. Mr. Casson is known for his work depicting birds, including Cry Freedom, a bronze eagle on permanent display at the George H. Bush Presidential Library in Houston. The battlefield cross was created by the Veterans Art Project, through the California Sculpture Academy.Located adjacent to the Letters Home Memorial, this original sculpture honors City residents who have given their lives in service to their country. This tribute was conceived by Temecula City Council’s Military Ad Hoc Subcommittee in the wake of the tragic loss of a Temecula resident who died in overseas action.“As public servants, it is our privilege to honor those who have paid the ultimate price in the defense of our great nation,” said Council Member Jeff Comerchero, who serves on the Military AdHoc Subcommittee and is a veteran of the United States Army. Temecula resident and Marine Staff Sergeant Louis Cardin, a 27-year-old field artilleryman with Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines, died while supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, the U.S. military's campaign against ISIS. Cardin was praised for his valor in ensuring the safety of his fellow soldiers during the fatal attack.The Subcommittee collaborated with community partners including the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4089, the Temecula Valley Woman’s Club, Riverside County Supervisor Chuck Washington, Temecula Commissioner Bob Hagel, and others. Military Service Seals honoring the individual branches of the United Sates Armed Services are arranged in front of the tower. The retaining wall which partially surrounds the sculpture will eventually feature a steel rendering.
Photos by Shawna Sarnowski Photography
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