Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11th, is a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. This day marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I, symbolizing peace and the valor of those who fought for it. While Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial serves this mission every day, Veterans Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by our veteran soldiers, sailors, and Marines, celebrate their courage, and express our gratitude for their unwavering commitment to protecting our freedoms. It is a day to recognize the profound impact of their service on our nation’s history and to ensure that their legacy of bravery and dedication is never forgotten.
This year, our Veterans Day ceremony featured a poignant piece by Joe Pisano, “The Guardian- Wings of Sacrifice”. Pisano’s artwork is a powerful tribute to all veterans who have served and sacrificed, symbolizing the deep respect and honor we hold for their contribution. Pisano’s creation is a deeply moving piece that encapsulates the struggles and heroism of veterans. The concept originated from a request by USAA to create an art piece highlighting the challenges faced by veterans after their service. Although the initial project was discontinued, Pisano’s dedication to the cause led him to continue the work, inspired by a personal encounter with a USCG Vietnam Combat Veteran diagnosed with terminal cancer. This veteran’s emotional plea and promise to witness the piece’s unveiling became the driving force behind its completion.
The artwork features a battlefield cross with archangel wings, symbolizing protection and sacrifice. The cross is adorned with approximately 5,000 screws, each representing a story of service and sacrifice. Gold Star Families have contributed to the piece by installing screws dedicated to their loved ones, adding a deeply personal touch. The wings are crafted from nearly 1,200 dog tags, each with simulated bullet holes to represent the 22 daily suicides among veterans, a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by many.
A unique aspect of Pisano’s work is the inclusion of a Field of Poppies, created from hand-painted bottle caps. This element draws inspiration from Flanders Field and aims to involve the community in honoring veterans. Participants can dedicate a bottle cap to a loved one, creating a ripple effect of remembrance and respect. Among these, a single black bottle cap stands out, symbolizing the individuality and specialness of each veteran’s story.
Pisano’s dedication to this project is evident in every detail, from the orange screw representing Agent Orange exposure to the shimmering dog tags that chime in the wind, echoing the voices of the fallen. “The Battlefield Cross” is not just an art piece; it is a living tribute to the sacrifices of veterans, a call to remember their stories and a commitment to supporting those who continue to serve.
As we gather to celebrate Veterans Day, let us reflect on the profound impact of Pisano’s artwork and the stories it tells. It is a reminder that the legacy of our veterans lives on through our collective memory and our ongoing efforts to honor and support them.
