Marine Corps Recruit Depot
Command Museum
1600 Henderson Avenue
San Diego, CA

San Diego, CA Medal of Honor Recipients Celebrate Marine Corps Birthday

Visions of Valor made a proud return to San Diego on November 9, 2006. The exhibit, which had previously been displayed at Balboa Naval Medical Center, was unveiled in the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Command Museum to a crowd of cadets, military leaders and special guests.

The opening ceremony featured Staff Sergeant Jeff Janowiec from the Marine Corps Public Affairs Office as the Master of Ceremonies. Brigadier General Angie Salinas, Commanding General of the MCRD, spoke of the pride she felt in having the exhibit coincide with the Marine Corps 231^st Birthday, as well as Veteran’s Day.

Also present were Medal of Honor Recipients John Baca and Jim Taylor. Baca, who during the Vietnam Conflict took the brunt of a grenade blast with his own body to save the lives of fellow soldiers, spoke of the impact one can have with just a simple visit to see an injured soldier. He encouraged attendees to reach out to troops in local hospitals and expressed his belief that Veteran’s Day would also be a great opportunity to let the men and women returning from Iraq know just how much we support them.

Mr. Taylor, who, despite heavy enemy fire, rescued more than a dozen soldiers from three separate burning vehicles, delivered heartfelt comments with regard to TriWest’s patriotism and commitment to service members. He spoke of his pride in participating in the Visions of Valor program as well as noting the Marine Corps Birthday and the 39^th anniversary of his action in Vietnam.

Set against the background of the MCRD, where many a young marine has first experienced the military values of bravery, honor and sacrifice, the Visions of Valor exhibit showcased the stories men whose actions epitomize selflessness and heroism.

The collection was on display in the Command Museum through January 2^nd, 2007.