NEW HOME OF THE BRAVE PALMDALE DEDICATES SQUARE FOR VETERANS.

Byline: Peggy Hager Staff Writer

PALMDALE - Veterans and their families braved the cold weather and threatening skies to dedicate the city of Palmdale's veterans memorial in Poncitlan Square.

Four concrete pillars surround a small courtyard, in the center of which is a 100-foot-tall flagpole topped by a U.S. flag measuring 20-by-30 feet. A large granite plaque donated by Halley-Olsen Murphy Memorial Chapel is inscribed: ``To those who fought and served to preserve our freedom, this plaque is dedicated to your brave and courageous acts.''

``The city of Palmdale wanted to make a special effort to have this memorial put together to honor our veterans,'' explained Palmdale Mayor Jim Ledford. ``It's important that we recognize their contribution. Our veterans are key in preserving this great nation.''

The ceremony concluded with Air Force Staff Sgt. Gerald Lockwood playing taps.

The speakers talked about the importance of remembering the sacrifices veterans made to the United States.

Pat Murray, herself a Marine veteran of World War II, noted that the population of surviving veterans is dwindling, and urged that they not be forgotten.

``Today most of the world war vets are in their late 60s, 70s and beyond,'' she said.

State Sen. W.J. ``Pete'' Knight, a decorated Vietnam War fighter pilot, encouraged his listeners to impress on children the importance of history and what veterans endured during wartime.

Knight also called for more benefits and better treatment for military personnel.

``I'm sure that now we have an honorable president in the White House this will change for our servicemen,'' Knight said.

CAPTION(S):

3 photos

Photo:

(1 -- color) Veterans Pat Murray, left, Dawson Stephens, Phil Roberts and Tom Craft listen to remarks at Monday's dedication.

(2 -- color) A plaque honoring servicemen and -women is the centerpiece of the Poncitlan Square memorial.

(3 -- color) Veteran Phil Roberts shows his spirit during dedication ceremonies Monday morning for the city of Palmdale's new veterans memorial in Poncitlan Square.

Tom Mendoza/Staff Photographer