Semper Fidelis Reflections: The Marine Monument at San Clemente
Paul Gavin, Enhanced canvas giclee print, 2006
And now available in a very special Christmas edition for that perfect holiday card!
Special pricing for active duty and retired military and family.
The Statue Speaks, a poem by USMC Colonel Stewart Navarre, accompanies the monument. It begins:
I bid you welcome to this place of grace
What you see here is done for memory
Though most may think it inspired by bravery
I believe it came from love.
Please click to read the complete poem.
The View from Park Semper Fi
More than just a picture of the statue, "Semper Fidelis Reflections" seeks to awaken and draw out the same thoughts and feelings of those who come here. A Marine's "uncommon valor" is emphasized by the statue's stark contrast against the bright sparkle water reflection. The statue's salue of the flags (Marine Corps Flag added with artistic license) is also a salute out to sea where ships often pass (as in the painting) and may also be a salute to marines and sailors, past, present and future — and to the Marine Corps traditions.
These elements, and the park's breathtaking vantage point on a hill above the echoing surf come together in this picture to inspire viewers to ponder their own "reflections" that this statue, this view, and the entire site evoke.
Special pricing for active duty and retired military and family. Order below. Then please enter your military story, i.e. your branch, rank, etc. in the "Special Instructions" box at checkout. Thank you!