Dana Point City Council supports Heritage Park welcome home monument proposal

During the City Council meeting on April 15, 2025, in Dana Point, significant discussions centered around the proposed Welcome Home Monument at Heritage Park, spearheaded by the Dana Point Fifth Marine Regiment Support Group. This initiative aims to honor the sacrifices of military personnel and their families, marking a meaningful tribute in the community.

Terry Rifkin, president of the support group, presented the vision for the monument, which will feature a granite backdrop depicting a poignant reunion between a service member and their family. This artwork is intended to symbolize the strength and resilience of both military members and their loved ones, referred to as "home front heroes." The project has been in the works for four years, with extensive planning and community outreach already conducted to ensure local support.

The council members expressed their enthusiasm for the project, with a motion passed to refer the initiative to the Financial Review Committee for further consideration. The support group has committed to fully funding the monument's construction and is seeking the city’s partnership for necessary park improvements to enhance the site’s beauty and accessibility.

Rifkin emphasized the importance of community involvement, inviting local residents and businesses to participate through sponsorship opportunities, which will include inscribed pavers and bronze plaques. The anticipated timeline for the project is between eight to twelve months, with hopes that it will become a lasting symbol of gratitude and unity in Dana Point.

The discussions at this meeting reflect a broader commitment to honoring military service and fostering community pride, as the city prepares to welcome this significant addition to Heritage Park. The council's support and the community's engagement will be crucial in bringing this vision to fruition, ensuring that the monument serves as a place of reflection for generations to come.