Along with so many anticipated events in our community, a planned mural upgrade in Twentynine Palms must be rescheduled due to COVID-19. Reporter Heather Clisby has the details …
Twentynine Palms is home to the Oasis of Murals, 26 murals depicting the history and scenery of the region. Mural #5, entitled “Desert Storm Homecoming & Victory Parade,” is now faded and was overdue for a repainting this spring. Due to COVID-19, that event is now being rescheduled for the fall.
Action Council for 29 Palms, the committee behind the creation and maintenance of the murals, has led a repainting fundraising effort resulting in over $20K with a goal of $45K.
LeeAnn Clarke, chair of Action 29 Palms, stated that they are now looking to reschedule the repaint in early October through mid-November 2020 with a public unveiling rescheduled in 2021.
Completed October 15, 1995 by Chuck Caplinger and located at 6177 Adobe Road, Mural #5 honors the Operation Desert Storm homecoming and 1991 Victory Parade that celebrated the return of troops to the Marine Base. Recalled as “The Mother of All Victory Parades,” more than 40,000 civilians jammed the city to welcome back Marines from the Persian Gulf.
Eventually, Mural #5 will be repainted by Caplinger and several assistants, including his wife, Holgie Forester, and artist David Greene. To donate, visit the website, action29palmsmurals.com.
