A Salute to Clairemont's Veterans

Lori's parents, Virginia & Frank Saldaña

by Lori Saldaña

Anyone who lives, works or otherwise enjoys being in and around Clairemont is probably well aware of our community’s close ties to the military.

Clairemont was the first post-WW II “planned” residential development, and it immediately attracted the families who were enjoying their GI Bill VA loans. It was conveniently located between the defense industry giants General Dyamics and Convair, formerly in Kearny Mesa (now the Spectrum housing and commercial development area), and MCRD and NTC down on the waterfront.

At times this relationship can be obvious: it’s easy to see service flags proudly flying alongside the stars and stripes in a front yard, DOD base stickers on windshields and “I support the troops” stickers on bumpers, or a service star proudly on view in a front window.

Less often, we see a gold star, and pray for the family who has lost a loved one in combat.
In addition, we can HEAR the unmistakable “sounds of freedom” roaring overhead, never as loudly as during the Air Shows at Miramar.

While many of us grew up with these amazing displays of power and technology in the skies, and may even take them for granted, the sights and sounds of jets travelling well beyond the speed of sound attract spectators from throughout Southern California, who thrill to the aerial acrobatics on display during the Air Shows.

All of these things are a basic part of life in Clairemont that illustrate our strong associations with military service.

On Veteran's Day let us acknowledge their service and sacrifice, celebrate their lives and remind everyone of our heritage, and our shared future.