After years of planning and a strong partnership with the City of Dana Point, we are proud to
bring an inspiring new landmark to Heritage Park on Old Golden Lantern. With the City’s
investment in significant park improvements, this beautiful setting will become a place of honor,
reflection, and remembrance for generations to come.

The Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group raised funds to commission Returning
Home, a moving bronze sculpture by nationally acclaimed artist Sutton Betti. Serving as the
centerpiece of the revitalized park, the monument will stand before an elegant granite backdrop,
creating a powerful tribute to the sacrifices made by our nation’s military families.

Returning Home captures one of the most emotional moments in military life—the joyful
reunion of a service member returning from deployment to the embrace of loved ones. It is a
timeless tribute to the courage, resilience, and selfless sacrifice of not only those who wear the
uniform, but also the families who serve beside them on the home front. These “Homefront
Heroes” provide the unwavering strength, love, and support that make every homecoming
possible.

While inspired by the proud legacy of the 5th Marine Regiment, this monument honors the brave
men and women of the United States Marine Corps and all branches of the United States Armed
Forces. It stands as a lasting symbol of service, sacrifice, hope, and the enduring bonds that unite
military families and the communities that proudly support them.

We are thrilled to share that groundbreaking for the Returning Home Monument is anticipated in early August!

Construction continues to move forward, and we are currently planning for the delivery and
installation of all monument elements during the week of September 28.

This remarkable tribute is truly a nationwide collaboration. Each component is being expertly
crafted by artisans across the country:

• The bronze sculpture is being created in Loveland, Colorado
• The benches and granite tablet are being crafted in San Diego, California
• The bronze donor plaques are coming from Chicago, Illinois
• The engraved commemorative pavers are being produced in Carlsbad, California

Perhaps the most heartwarming news of all is that Colonel Flynn, Commanding Officer of the 5th
Marine Regiment, is expected to “return home” from deployment in time for the monument’s
dedication. His homecoming will make this celebration even more meaningful, perfectly
reflecting the spirit and purpose of the Returning Home Monument.

Attached is a photo shared by our sculptor, Sutton Betti, offering an exclusive first look at the
monument taking shape. It is an inspiring glimpse of a lasting tribute that will honor our service
members, veterans, and the families who stand beside them for generations to come.