Druding Park

website open in a new window Druding Park was created June 9, 2001 to be a Veteran's Monument acknowledging those who have served in all of the armed forces. This triangle-shaped, 1.38 acre park was dedicated "In tribute to all who served and gave their lives in defense of our precious freedom."

Photo of monument
A very special tribute to Joseph Patrick, "Joey", Pink was erected in 2006. Joey was born at Soboba Indian Hospital in San Jacinto on November 11, 1947. A highly decorated soldier in the U.S. Army, he died on October 23, 1967 serving his country in Vietnam.

Once the site of the moving Vietnam Wall in 2003, this beautiful, tree-filled, 1.38 acre park is located close to the downtown area at 208 Pico Avenue (Ramona Blvd & Pico Avenue).

There are several benches where one can enjoy a peaceful moment while remembering those who went before us so that we can enjoy freedom and liberty.

The Anchor

Donated by the United States Navy to the City of San Jacinto, the anchor in Druding Park was once used on the USS Cleveland (LPD-7), a naval ship originally commissioned in April 21, 1967. This ship saw action in the Vietnam War during the 1967 "Tet Offensive," one of the largest military campaigns of the Vietnam War. The USS Cleveland later saw action during "Operation Desert Shield / Desert Storm" in 1990-1991. The USS Cleveland was decommissioned on September 30, 2011.
Photo of Anchor

The anchor weighs 22,500 pounds and was used to keep the naval ship from drifting due to wind or ocean currents when necessary.

The City dedicated the anchor on December 7, 2006 in honor of those members of the United States Navy who protected the country at sea.

The Bell

Dedicated by the citizens of San Jacinto in Druding Park on May 22, 2010, the bell once rang aboard the USS Cape Johnson (AP-172), which was acquired by the United States Navy on June 1, 1944. During World War II it participated in two campaigns; the Luzon Operation - Lingayen Gulf Landing November 14-15, 1944 and Iwo Jim Operation in the assault and occupation of Iwo Jima from February 19 to March 5, 1945. Photo of Bell

Following WWII the USS Cape Johnson was assigned to occupation service in the Far East from September 10 to October 2, 1945. It was decommissioned on July 25, 1946.

The Propeller

The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress was the most recognizable bomber of World War II. Its first flight was in 1935. This propeller could attain speeds of up to 287 miles per hour. It was dedicated by San Jacinto citizens on May 19, 2007 in honor of Air Force personnel who have served over the years. website open in a new window

The Tank

website open in a new window

By far the most popular attraction at Druding Park is the tank. Seen from the street on all sides of the park, the tank rests in a central location under several shady palms.