The Tiger Squadron soars over the Castle Air Museum during a ceremony to honor one of the museum’s founders, Lt. Col. Cliff James.
Major General Clay Garrison, retired USAF, was the Master of Ceremonies.
James’ family members, including grandchildren and great grandchildren, were the first to see the memorial.
The memorial was unveiled by the children of Cliff James.
Mitchell Senior Cadet Corps members C/CPL Dakota Razo, C/CPL Myleeha Duran, and CFC Rodney Bennett raised the flag.
A memorial dedicated to Clifford “Cliff” James was unveiled by family members during a ceremony at Castle Air Museum last Saturday.
James was one of the founders of Castle Air Museum, following a successful career of service in the United States Air Force. He retired at Castle Air Force Base as a Lieutenant Colonel after 32 years of service.
“Whether you called him Dad, or Grandpa, or Clifford, you knew he loved God, his family, and this country,” said Melanie Cole about her father. “And, of course, he loved this museum. Thank you for recognizing him, and remembering what an amazing man he was.”
A large group of family, friends, colleagues, and public figures attended the ceremony last Saturday morning to witness “the reveal” of the memorial plaque, located by the flagpole at the entrance of the museum.
The memorial was organized by a committee composed of Larry McFarland, Al Osborn, Joe Pruzzo, and the late Barbara Williams. Over 60 contributors funded the project, including the Atwater Rotary Club, who made a significant contribution. The project began after James’ passing in June of 2021, but was delayed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This is a big day, because a lot of what you see here is a direct result of his work and his effort,” said Major General Clay Garrison, USAF retired. He is chairman of the Board of Directors for Castle Air Museum, and was the Master of Ceremonies for the event.
During the ceremony, the flag was raised by three cadets from the Mitchell Senior Cadet Corps. A flyby was performed during the ceremony by Tiger Squadron, which soared overhead at the finale of the National Anthem, sung by soloist Jordyn Allison. On board the plane, at the front of the formation, was one of Cliff James’ sons, Brent James. On the ground were two of James’ other children, Chet James and Melanie Cole, and their families.
Representatives for Senator Anna Caballero and Congressman John Duarte were in attendance, and both presented certificates honoring the memorial. Merced Mayor Matt Serratto was also in attendance.
Brigadier General Loring Asterino, USAF retired, took time to speak to those in attendance about his time knowing Cliff James. Anecdotes of James’ time in the service were met with laughter and tears.
“The one memory that I will treasure the most is that Cliff was my friend for 46 years,” said Asterino. “He will be missed.”
After acknowledgements from the memorial committee chairperson, Larry McFarland, the memorial was unveiled by James’ children. The crowd gathered around to read the inscription and admire the results of the two years of effort to make the memorial a reality.