Flyover, tribute to Women Airforce Service Pilots, and wreath in memory of ‘Barber Dan’ Phillips highlights moving community gathering

ATASCADERO — On Monday, May 26, the Atascadero community came together in solemn remembrance at the Faces of Freedom Veterans Memorial for the 17th Annual Memorial Day Celebration hosted by the Atascadero Veterans Memorial Foundation. With hundreds in attendance, the heartfelt ceremony paid tribute to the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.

This year’s program featured a tribute to the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) by guest speaker LTC Melissa Hughes, a ceremonial wreath placement in memory of beloved community figure Dan “Barber Dan” Phillips, and a flyover by the Estrella Warbirds — all reminding us of the enduring legacy of courage, sacrifice, and freedom.

“I was honored to attend the Faces of Freedom ceremony, standing with our community in quiet remembrance,” District 5 San Luis Obispo County Supervisor Heather Moreno told Atascadero News. “LTC Melissa Hughes shared the remarkable legacy of the Women Airforce Service Pilots, and we were all moved as a memorial wreath was placed in honor of Dan Phillips, someone whose impact on our community continues to be felt. Moments like these remind us why we must never forget those who gave all.”

Photos by Rick Evans/ATN

Hughes, a C-12 pilot with the 370th Flight Test Squadron at Edwards Air Force Base, shared stories of people she has lost during her time in service and shared condolences for the families in attendance who lost their loved ones as well.

“She [Hughes] shared with us some personal experiences she’s had and people she’s lost and who she was remembering. And that was that was just it was incredible,” Atascadero Veterans Memorial Foundation President and Ceremony Coordinator Cheryl Hertan.

The Atascadero Veterans Memorial Foundation is a nonprofit committed to honoring and preserving the memory of local veterans who have bravely served our country. Our organization aims to provide a place of remembrance and gratitude for the sacrifices made.

“I think the veterans feel so honored because this community does really step forward,” Hertan shared with Atascadero News about Monday’s ceremony. “We had the [Estrella] Warbirds flyover, which everybody loves. And the Cal Poly ROTC doing the color guard again. But we also have the military heroes flag line, which we’ve had for now, probably a good four or five years.”

Beloved community member Dan Phillips (Dan the Barber to many) was honored this year with the ceremony’s annual wreath presentation. Phillips, who passed away in January this year, was a U.S. Army veteran who served in Korea from 1952 to 1953.

Phillips was a cherished figure in Atascadero, known for his warm personality and dedication to his community. After moving to Atascadero with his wife Ramona in 1961, Phillips established his barbershop, which became a local institution over the next 63 years. His shop, connected to their family home, was more than just a place for haircuts — it was a gathering spot where stories were shared, and friendships were forged.

Photos by Rick Evans/ATN

Despite the changing times, Phillips maintained a modest $10 fee for haircuts, often refusing to raise prices out of empathy for his clients’ financial situations. His generosity and community spirit were evident in anecdotes from patrons who recalled his infectious laugh, storytelling, and even accepting eggs as payment.

Phillip’s wife Ramona attended the ceremony on Monday in honor of her late husband.

“I was looking at it as an opportunity for the community to express their condolences, and they’re honoring of him,” Hertan shared.

As in years past, the Estrella Warbirds started the ceremony at 11 a.m. with a flyover before the Cal Poly ROTC performed the Presentation of Colors. Once again, Central Coast Pipes and Drums accompanied the procession, followed by the singing a beautiful version of the national anthem by Abbigail Hill (14).

“It was just incredible to see this 14-year-old belting out the national anthem,” Hertan said. “I’m a big crybaby, but this really moved me to tears … her whole performance of it.”

Bricks are still available to purchase to fund the Faces of Freedom’s preservation. For more information on the Faces of Freedom Memorial and the Atascadero Veteran’s Memorial Foundation, visit facesoffreedommemorial.org