Palm Springs Air Museum Memorial Day Flower Drop 2023

Story and Photos by Pat Krause

The Palm Springs Air Museum held its 27th Memorial Day event. They honor all war veterans who have died to keep America Free. Thousands of people, including small children, veterans, and their families, came to honor their loved ones and all who died in the war.

The day was full of memorable events as veterans were warmly welcomed with handshakes and expressions of gratitude for their service. It was unfortunate to see many of them in wheelchairs due to age or disability, but some had brought their chairs, anticipating an extended stay. Tables and chairs were arranged in various hangars, adorned with flags, leis, fans, and candy for everyone’s enjoyment. Visitors also got to view 75 planes from the museum’s collection.

In front of the Heat Wave Band were benches for the audience to sit and enjoy the entertainment. The food vendors had a busy day due to the long lines. However, the weather was pleasant this year, with warm temperatures and a refreshing breeze. During the event, Director Fred Bell spoke to the crowd about the significance of Memorial Day beyond just being a holiday. He emphasized that it was a day to honor the brave men and women who wore uniforms, pledged to keep our country safe, and tragically never returned home. Additionally, this year marks the 50th anniversary of the return of our Vietnam POW veterans. During the ceremony to honor fallen soldiers from WWII, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan, more than 30 Gold Star Family members were presented with white roses. Each family mem- ber’s lost loved one was mentioned by name. Father Johnson conducted a prayer, and the national anthem was sung. Gregg Miller and others respectfully carried red and white roses to the plane. The event culminated in a Missing Man formation executed by four jets flying over the Air Museum.

Today’s event was great except for one little hiccup: the flowers were delayed! The airport had necessary flights that needed to take off and land first. Fred Bell felt terrible about the delay, but it wasn’t his fault. Despite the wait, many people stuck around and patiently waited for the flower drop. In the end, the flowers were dropped at the Air Museum hangars instead, and people gathered there to pick them up and show their appreciation for our brave servicemen and women who sacrificed their lives for our country’s freedom.