The historical Casa Romantica of San Clemente, Calif. officially opened a special exhibit named “Memories of World War II,” with a ceremony that honored veterans, March 6.
The event featured Col. Nicholas Marano, commanding officer, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, as the guest speaker and the 1st Marine Division Band provided the entertainment.
Marano expressed the importance of remembering those who fought before us.
“Like Cicero (the famous philosopher) said, not to know what happened before you were born is to be a child forever,” said Marano in his opening remarks.
The guest of honor at the affair was Medal of Honor recipient Walter D. Ehlers, who received the medal for actions of gallantry during the battles surrounding D-day, in June 1944.
“It’s an honor to be amongst veterans, especially World War II veterans, who are truly part of the greatest generation,” said Marano.
The exhibit mainly features war photos from the archives of the Associated Press, that includes a large photo of the flag raising at the Battle of Iwo Jima.
Outside of the facility, fully functional World War II-era vehicles, provided by the California Historical Group, made an appearance and allowed attendees to climb on and take photos.
Casa Romantica is a cultural center and gardens that has special meaning to San Clemente.
The facility was originally built as a family home by the city’s co-founder, Ole Hanson in 1927.
Over the years, the house passed through various owners. In 1946, the owners at the time named it Casa Romantica, Spanish for Romantic House. Between 1946 and 1989 the property exchanged hands several more times until it was purchased by the City San Clemente and placed on the National Registry of Historic Places in 1991.
The event was attended by several hundred loca residents and veterans.
“As we honor our veterans here today, I ask that you keep in your thoughts and prayers on the Marines and sailors of Camp Pendleton that are preparing to deploy next week to Afghanistan,” said Marano.
The Memories of World War II exhibit will be on display at Casa Romantica until April 18.