Many veterans of the service turned out Sunday for opening ceremonies of Murrieta’s fourth annual Field of Honor.
More than 2,012 American flags will wave for one week at Town Square Park. The patriotic display is a partnership between the Rotary Club of Murrieta and the city of Murrieta.
"There are so Military families who call Murrieta home,” said Pete Palmer, member of the Field of Honor Committee. "Our goal is to show a measure of respect and honor to them."
The ceremony on Sunday—during which the city's first responders such as police and fire were recognized—featured the 36-member Southwest Women’s Chorus, directed by Bill Paisner. Speakers included Murrieta Mayor Doug McAllister and Dennis McCarbery, the Rotary Club of Murrieta's public relations director.
Chalk artists were invited to develop a Patriot’s Walk at the edge of the field for the first time this year.
“To see such a massive display of patriotism is really breathtaking,” said Brian Crain, cub master of Murrieta cub scout pack 614, who brought his son Eric, 10, along with a few other members of the pack.
“As someone who has served, it makes it easier to make the sacrifice when you know how much you are supported back home," Crain said.
Crain wasn’t the only veteran in attendance. Friends Joann Parin, 78, and Dorothy Allen, 57, were impressed by the display.
“It’s our time to be honored, and they did so beautifully,” Allen said.
The Murrieta Field of Honor recognizes those who served or are serving in the United States Armed Forces, law enforcement, fire and other first responder posts as well as other personal heroes.
Flags will be displayed through Nov. 11 and can still be purchased for $35 and kept once the display is over. The American flags are 3 x 5 feet on an 8-foot pole. They can be purchased on the Field of Honor website, Murrietafieldofhonor.com.
Net proceeds from the Field of Honor benefit the “Murrieta Through Time” history walk and the both at Town Square Park.
