On February 16, 2013, Linares Chapter joined hundreds of San Diegans in celebrating the ribbon cutting for the “Kiss” statue, or as it is officially known, “Unconditional Surrender.”  This statue honors the end of WWII and now stands in a park next to the USS Midway Museum.  Our chapter raised more than $500.00, to sponsor bringing this icon to San Diego as a permanent fixture replacing a temporary one.  This statue is bronze and a brick bearing the name of the Linares Chapter is in the pathway that leads to the base of it.  Many dignitaries were present including the mayor, county supervisor, and other local celebrities. Twelve couples who were married during WWII were there to renew their vows, and two of the grooms wore their original uniforms.  The brides carried bouquets of white flowers provided by the USS Midway Museum.  A Navy chaplain was on hand to perform the ceremony and all of the grooms kissed their brides. The Navy Band played patriotic music and music from the 1940’s era.

Submitted by:  Paula-Jo Cahoon