The carnation drop at the Palm Springs Air Museum has become a tradition here in the valley on Memorial Day to remember and pay tribute to our brave soldiers.

 

Crowds gathered beneath the Palm Springs sunshine for a day of remembrance. Planes flying high at the Palm Springs Air Museum, folks honoring those who fought and died proudly for the United States of America.

 

"People who are in combat and protecting us and preserving our way of life deserve every accolade and every bit of respect," said La Quinta resident Alan Wayne.

 

The B-25 mitchell bomber was once used in combat but on Monday it was used to drop 3,000 carnations in Palm Springs.

 

The engines roared as the B-25 prepared for take off, a symbol of us freedom and courage. T-34's also in the sky, gracing the crowd with the missing man formation.

 

"I'd say that the people who fight for our country that's what I'd say," said 6-year-old Tyra.

 

"Just a time to celebrate past and present, anybody serving," said retired Army Corporal Yvonne Mcneil. "Give them their one special day, kind of like the fourth of july to celebrate each others military service and just respect each other and show the appreciation we show our service men and women."

 

After a couple of fly-overs the bomber opened it's doors and released thousands of red and white carnations rained down on the anxious crowd.

 

"We do this to make sure they're remembered, especially on memorial day its more important than anything because a lot of them gave everything for this country and sometimes people forget," said Michael Wilgus.

 

A day spent remembering the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

 

This is the 14th year the Palm Springs Air Museum has done a flower drop on Memorial Day.