San Diego Harbor Area, California

Unconditional Surrender sculpture by Seward Johnson stands 25 feet tall and weighs 6,000 pounds commerates a famous Life Magazine photo taken by Alfred Eisenstaedt on Augst 14th, 1945, VJ Day in Time Square, New York City. The Sailor and The Nurse didn't know each other. There's been speculation about whom they were after the fact. Names weren't obtain when the photo was taken on that exciting day. This sculpture stands along the walk way in San Diego harbor, near The Midway Museum.
There were a variety of women who came forward through the years claiming to be this nurse, sailors too came forward to say it was them. The case was fairly well proven for Edith Shain as the nurse, though less luck in determining whom the sailor was. Edith died June 20th, 2010; but was present for the dedication of the sculpture in February of 2007. Though Alfred Eisenstaedt was credited with the famous photo that appeared on the cover of Life Magazine, it was not the only similar photo taken. One with a bit more of a street scene was taken at the same moment by Navy Photographer, Victor Jorgensen; it was Elfred's photo that got all the attention.
Life Magazine feels their toes have been stepped on regarding this sculpture. They indicate they hold the copyright, and that the artist, J. Seward Johnson didn't have permission to use the likeness in his sculpture.

There's also speculation about the picture, as to whether or not it occurred before or after the actual announcement of surrender from Japan. Even those researchers who feel it likely happened before, say the crowds had started to gather, to speculate that the announcement was forthcoming.

The walk along the water front is very enjoyable with lots to see, even on a cool, windy, and rainy day...such as the day we were there. We did manage to see some sights between the rain drops. I highly encourage visiting this site and many others in the area.

Please keep our service men and women in your thoughts as you give Thanks on this special day of Thanksgiving.

Time Share Travel Tip

When you travel and stay in a hotel, a condo, and or a timeshare (even if you're not the owner), keep the container/ insert that generally comes with your room keys. Often a location map of the resort is included. If you plan to return to this location, it's advantageous to remember the lay of the land...so to speak. Additionally, it's helpful when you try to remember whether you liked or disliked the room location. Where you on a top floor, was the view pleasant? Do you have children and if so, were you near the children's play/pool area? If you liked where you were, you'll know what to ask for with your room assignment on return. If you didn't, you'll have the lay out of the resort to make a selection from. It's hard to trust your memory if you travel often and sometimes your personal pictures simply don't show this type of information.

Call you resort/hotel about 3-4 days before your arrival and make your requests. You generally can't make your requests too far ahead because they may not know what will be available. If you need an early check in because of your flight times, this is also a good time to do that. While you never get a 100% guarantee, it's been my experience most resorts are willing to do what they can to work with you on your request and or special needs.