The Veterans Wall of Freedom displays plaques honoring heroes of every branch of the military armed forces, from every corner of the world. It is so important that we continue to teach our children the meaning of honor to those who bravely serve and have served our great nation.
This last April, Grand Terrace Girl Scout Brownie Troop 76, volunteered to help out at the 100th Anniversary MARCH Air Reserve Base Air Show. The Brownies were looking forward to seeing the USAF Thunderbird team at the Air Show. Sadly, the Thunderbirds had to withdraw from attending due to a tragic accident that claimed the life of Thunderbird #4 Maj. Stephen Del Bagno a couple of days before while practicing for this Airshow.
It was very devastating news and the Brownies took action to do their best to honor and remember him. They made a simple banner to hold in honor of him at the Air Show, and they discussed the idea of getting a plaque for him on the veterans wall of freedom. With the help of Jim and Mayor Darcy McNaboe, Girl Scout Troop 76 put a plaque on the Veterans Wall of Freedom for Memorial Day to honor and remember Maj. Stephen Del Bagno for his service.
The Girls made a promise to help maintain the Veterans Wall by helping to keep it nice , to sweep and clean it throughout the years. They were sad for this tragic accident but proud to be able and honor Maj. Del Bagno’s legacy on the Veterans Wall of Freedom.
Troop 76 had the opportunity to meet Thunderbird team at Los Alamitos Air Base and were invited to attend the Huntington Beach Air Show and after party as Thunderbird guests over the weekend of October 19-20th.
The Brownies presented the Thunderbird pilots and the family of Maj. Del Bagno with a certificate of the plaque on the Veterans Wall of Freedom.
This was such a great experience for our young girls, to express honor to the family of Maj. Stephen Del Bagno and to meet the Thunderbird team. The USAF Thunderbirds were such impressive role models, maintaining a top notch professional military presence, yet so caring, loving and personable with our young Brownies.
Maj. Stephen Del Bagno, Thunderbird #4 is on the “M” on the Veterans Wall of Freedom.