Remembering the veterans
In November, in front of Downey City Hall, a new statue is resurrected as a veteran’s memorial. On every corner around the statue there is a plaque of each department of the military to represent the Navy, Marines, Army, and Air Force.
December 7, 2012
In honor of veterans who have served for their country, the city of Downey dedicated the new Veterans Memorial in the Civic Center Area on Nov. 12. This addition to the civic center stands in front of the police station on its pentagon base, each of its different podiums naming a different section of the armed forces. After a year of planning by the City Council Veterans Memorial Subcommittee, the sculpture and fountain joins the Fallen Officers Memorial and a bust of John Gately Downey. All of the works set a tone to the civic center area—that the residents of Downey are thankful for the service men who fight for their country and give back to their families and communities.
“I think it promotes modernism in Downey,” senior John Fernandez said, “ and the calm water displays a message about veterans and how they get peace by being appreciated for their service.”
The marble piece stands tall, with a metal symbol at the top. The crests of each branch are also engraved on the structure. The California based artist, James Russel has worked on other memorials and monuments for local cities like Cerritos and Duarte. The new statue has been supported from the beginning, however, some residents are still surprised by the news. Long time Downey resident and alumni Joanna Shull, volunteers at the thrift store Second Time Around on Downey Ave., and is pleasantly surprised by the patriotic project.
“It’s great that it’s there; it’s too bad I have not seen it yet,” Shull said. “I’m going to drive over there to take a look once I’m done here!”
The students at Downey High School have also noticed the memorial.
“It’s [the memorial] unique; it gives the civic center an artistic vibe while also showing Downey’s respect for the people who protect freedom,” senior Diana Perez said.
This latest project presented and financed by the Arts in Public Places fund has made a home in Downey. Its meaning will continue to represent the sense of pride within the community.

While college years are ahead of her, the student is savoring the moments she has left in high school, taking in her senior year and trying to make the most of it. The Downey Legend editor is an active member in the school marching band, playing the clarinet and euphonium. The senior also enjoys spending time reading while having 3rd Street Coffee in hand, and listening to indie bands and artists such as The xx and Lana del Ray.
Once she graduates, the ambitious writer hopes to build a successful career as E.I.C. of her own magazine, making newspaper a foundation for her future endeavors. She anticipates stepping foot into the real world, attending the USC Annenberg School of Communications or FIDM. The young and talented individual has prospered as a writer and leader; providing the staff with a model of success, she leaves big shoes to fill.

The soft-spoken Menendez lives her life to the fullest of its potential each and every day. She is a proud film enthusiast, lover of Asian cuisine, and self-proclaimed introvert – though she claims to enjoy wasting away the weekends with her friends. Nonetheless, rather than having a traditional quinceñera with the spotlight on her, Menendez chose to travel Europe alone. “I’ve always wanted to go, just to see new places I’d never seen before.” Menendez says. “I wanted something new. She still longs to travel the rest of the world – all the while, documenting her trips through a camera lens. A small girl, Menendez has big dreams ahead of herself.
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