Another Monument

---

On Memorial Day 2025 many people gathered at local monuments to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifices during WWII. My husband, John, and I joined a large group at the Santa Barbara Cemetery that morning.

The American flag was at half-staff, and numerous flags and flowers were thoughtfully placed on the tombstones throughout the cemetery.  The vibrant colors waving over the well-groomed grass reminded us of thoughtful families with love in their hearts. 

Santa Barbara Airport Memorial

Not all monuments are grand and imposing, casting long shadows over sacred grounds. Some are small, simple, and discreetly situated in a secluded corner, often overlooked by the public. One such monument is the Santa Barbara Airport Memorial, situated near the airport in honor of the local aviators who lost their lives during World War II. The Marine Squadrons that trained at the airport during the war are also remembered with their squadron names inscribed on the slender black granite obelisk.

As you walk around the dark stone, you will note the words inscribed at its base. "When once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return." These words are attributed to  Leonardo da Vinci, for he was well-known, for his pure and intellectual fascination with flight. While the authenticity of these words remains uncertain, they serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who flew from this WWII air base with their eyes fixed on the sky.

Barbara Evans Kinnear

---

Further Articles