Bike Trail Near Temecula VFW To Be Named After Temecula Marine Killed In Action

TEMECULA, CA — A portion of the new biking and walking trail will be named after a local hero, the city of Temecula resolved at a recent city council session.

The one-half-mile stretch of the bike trail on Diaz Road, which runs from Rancho Way to Rancho California Road, fronts the Veterans of Foreign Wars facility and will bear the name of Staff Sgt. Louis "Louie" F. Cardin, of the U.S. Marine Corps, who was killed in Iraq in March of 2016.

The motion passed, 5-0, at the Nov. 18 meeting.

John Hernandez, a retired Marine, commander of the Temecula Valley Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4089, and a family friend, proposed the naming and was present to see it come to fruition. That request made it through the Council Subcommittee, with Mayor Brenden Kalfus and Council Member

James "Stew" Stewart in support of the concept

Signage for this portion of the trail will be provided through Temecula Public Works, and the Temecula Valley VFW chapter will maintain that segment of the trail, according to city documents.

The trail is likely be dedicated on the 10th anniversary of Staff Sgt. Louis "Louie" F. Cardin, of the U.S. Marine Corps, who was killed in Iraq on March 16, 2016.

"I speak for thousands of local Veterans when recommending that the newly completed walking trail along Diaz Road be named and dedicated in the name of our local hero, SSgt Louis F. Cardin, who paid the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq on March 19th, 2016, defending our country's freedoms," Hernandez's letter of recommendation stated.

The council received and reviewed numerous requests for the naming before making its unanimous decision.

"Naming a 'Biking/ Walking Trail' in his honor would be a meaningful way to pay tribute to SSgt Cardin," wrote Sgt. Maj. Larock W. Benford Benford of the Southwest Riverside County Marine Corps League Detachment #1057. "It would ensure that every resident and visitor is reminded of the patriotism and service within the community. His name would symbolize the courage and commitment demonstrated by many in the armed forces. Thank you for considering this request. The City Council is urged to take the necessary steps to make this tribute a reality. "

Jesus "Jesse" Santillano, Commander of Temecula VFW Post 4089, also wrote in support of the measure.

"This recognition would ensure that Louie's sacrifice and legacy continue to inspire residents and visitors alike, reminding all who walk the path of the cost of freedom and the valor of those who defend it. I respectfully urge the City Council to approve this commendable and heartfelt proposal. Thank you for your consideration and continued support of our veterans and their families."

At the time of his death, Cardin was deployed with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, which sent a detachment of Marines to Makhmur to guard the base. The Marines were supporting Operation Inherent Resolve is the U.S. military's campaign against ISIS