I write this having just visited Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. I hope you agree with me that, during this holiday season, Long Beach should honor the women and men who gave their lives in service to our country.
On Dec. 11, thousands of Christmas wreaths will be placed on the graves of the women and men who gave their lives in service of our country at Arlington and at 450 other locations across the US. The wreath-laying ceremony is a project of Wreaths Across America.
I am proud to tell you that for the very first time in Long Beach, we will be participating in those ceremonies by laying Christmas wreaths in honor of those women and men who gave their lives in service to our country at the Rosie the Riveter Park and Interpretive Center military memorial [at the park site at Conant Street and Clark Avenue].
Do you have a family member or friend you want to have remembered during the ceremonies on Dec. 11? I ask that you [visit schipskedistrict5journal.com and go to “click here” ] to let me know if you have someone you wish remembered during the ceremony. Also please let me know if you will attend the ceremonies.
The ceremonies will include a dedication of the wonderful enhancements to the Rosie the Riveter Park, such as our walking path with etched history, compass rose and historical signs. Thanks to the Long Beach Naval Heritage Association, Supervisor Don Knabe, Wal-Mart and many others, Rosie the Riveter Park is the first of its kind in Long Beach and only the second of its kind in the United States.
I look forward to hearing from you and to seeing you at the ceremonies this coming Saturday, Dec. 11 at 10am.
Gerrie Schipske
Long Beach Councilmember
Fifth District
