Change in usage

When I was in my late teens, I had my first visit to Downey. I grew up in La Mirada, a city 7 miles east of Downey, and the only knowledge I had with Downey was that the Carpenters singing group was from there.

La Mirada didn't have any military recruiting offices, so I went to this small strip mall on Paramount Blvd in Downey to go through the process of enlisting in the army. They had me take an aptitude test that gave me several options for my training. I chose to go to X-ray technician school. Once I finished my enlistment, I was able to get my license to be an X-ray technician in California without going back to school. I also received several benefits from the GI bill.

The recruiting office for all the armed services is now on the corner of Firestone Blvd and Patton Road, across from Downey High School.

What was your first visit to Downey?

The man behind the marker

Last weekend, thinking about the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, I walked through the Downey Cemetery and noticed this gravestone.

Tony Gomez was born at the end of the first World War, the Great War. And he died at the end of the second World War. I've always wondered at the history behind the people buried here, and now, thanks to the internet, we can fill in some of the blanks.

Based on U.S. World War II Army Enlistment Records, Tony Gomez enlisted as a private in the army in Colorado, in July 1943. He was 25 years old, with a grammar school education. He was married. In his civilian life, he was a driver of some sort. He rose to the rank of Technician Fifth Grade, the equivalent of a corporal. The cross on his gravestone indicates that he most likely served as a chaplain's assistant. In this role, he would have cared for the chaplain’s official property, acted as his clerk, and helped with the educational, religious, and general entertainment programs.

The 306 Infantry 77 Division served in the Pacific during World War II. At the time that Private Gomez was killed, his unit was "...fighting its way slowly against extremely heavy Japanese resistance."

These are the facts that possibly apply to Tony Gomez. But I still wonder. How did he come to be buried in Downey, California? Did he leave behind children in addition to his wife?

And did he know how much his sacrifice would be appreciated by the generations that have come after him?

Behind the scenes

I know, a concert is all about the music. No music, no concert. But as a photographer, I often find that I am more drawn to what goes on behind the scenes.

Near the stage at last night's concert by the Third Marine Aircraft Wing Band, several military vehicles were on display. This jeep with its mounted weapon (don't ask me what kind!) was like a magnet for all the young boys in the vicinity.

A different kind of magnetic appeal was going on near the jeeps. What could be more appealing than a man in uniform? How about a princess? (Past and present Miss Downey participants are on hand every week helping to fundraise for the Downey Rose Parade float.) These two were sharing a mutually enjoyable moment.

And last, I was drawn to this backstage display. Of course the band members wore their caps. And of course, they must remove them while playing. And artfully stack them amid their trunks and water bottles.

The last of the bands

The end of summer is getting closer. I know, because tonight was the last of the summer Concert in the Park series. Tonight's performance was by the Third Marine Aircraft Wing Band. The band is stationed on Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego (yes, the base that Tom Cruise immortalized in Top Gun).

The band led the crowd in the Star Spangled Banner, which is always more moving when played by a group of soldiers who are serving their country. This was followed by John Williams' theme from Star Wars, and much, much more.

You can read more about the band here.

Thank you for serving

At the Concert in the Park tonight, there was a lot going on. For me however, the most moving part of the night was when the conductor asked everyone to stand who had served or is serving our country in the different services.

As she announced Army, my dad stood up. As she announced Navy, this man stood up. All the men and women standing were so calm and matter of fact about serving. It's our country, and they fought to preserve our rights and freedoms. We all clapped for them but I really just wanted to go and hug him.

They didn't come tonight to get recognition, but I'm glad they got it anyway. I'm so thankful for people like my dad and this man and the sacrifices they made for me.