FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Date: May 4, 2003
Contact: Jennifer Stone (619) 531-4766 Nicole Cretelle (619) 531-5439

COUNTY, MILITARY TIE FINAL KNOT ON YELLOW RIBBON

DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO - As San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chairman Greg Cox and Vice Chairwoman Dianne Jacob officially unfurled what is believed to be the nation's largest yellow ribbon, a crowd of military families, veterans and local citizens expressed their support for U.S. servicemen and women. The crowd gathered at a public celebration this afternoon to view the ribbon, but more importantly, to welcome home those aboard the first few ships to arrive, and to stand behind the members of the U.S. military still overseas.

"It is only fitting that we welcome home the courageous men and women who defend our freedom with a huge display, since this County is home to more active duty and retired members of the military than any other county in the world," said Chairman Greg Cox.

"I am overwhelmed by the amount of energy and support shown today for the military and military families," said Vice Chairwoman Dianne Jacob. "The giant yellow ribbon and its bow is a very visible expression of this community's gratitude and best wishes for a safe and swift return."

Generously underwritten by the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation and the military family support group Operation Homefront, the yellow ribbon project was conceived by Chairman Cox and Vice Chairwoman Jacob.

The yellow ribbon is approximately 240 feet long and 8 feet tall. Its decorative bow is approximately 25 feet tall and 25 feet wide. The bow is installed on the west side of the County Administration Center, facing Naval Air Station North Island, homeport to three U.S. aircraft carriers. It is planned that the ribbon will stay in place as long as needed to greet all servicemen and women returning to San Diego from Operation Iraqi Freedom.