USS Liberty Oak Tree


The Desert Sun
March 28th, 2004 Coachella Valley

VFW post seeks out Korean War veterans

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3699 in Indio is seeking to identify all Korean War veterans in the community, as well as the names of all valley residents now serving in the armed forces.

On May 1, the old cork oak tree at the Coachella Valley Museum and Cultural Center will be dedicated as "The USS Liberty Tree" in honor of Navy Capt. William L. McGonagle, the crew of the USS Liberty, all Korean War veterans and all valley residents now serving in the armed forces.

Anyone who was aboard the USS Liberty on June 8 and 9, 1967, is also asked to contact VFW Post 3699 at 772-4587 prior to the dedication. Following the ceremony, there will be a $10-per-plate carne asada dinner.

Korean War veterans are asked to call Post Cmdr. Mike Pierson at 347-3364 (work), 831-0791 (cell) or 772-4587 (home).

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Jim Ennes and Joe Meadors

USS Liberty