Flagpole at Wildwood Park dedicated in memory of leader Tony Marzullo

The Wildwood Park Neighborhood Association of San Bernardino recently paid tribute to the late Anthony “Tony” Marzullo, dedicating a newly installed flagpole at Wildwood Park in his memory.

More than 150 people attended the Jan. 28 dedication ceremony, including family members, friends, co-workers, city dignitaries and community members.

Marzullo, who died in March 2022, had been president of the Wildwood Park Neighborhood Association for about a decade, working with others to improve the park’s ballfields and grounds, according to a news release.

Under his leadership, the association conducted activities including informative meetings, neighborhood crime intervention, community cleanups and Christmas celebrations in the park.

He often had remarked that a flagpole and flag would be a perfect addition to the entrance of Wildwood Park, according to the news release.

The Rev. Scottie Lloyd, pastor of the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, opened and closed the dedication ceremony with prayer, and speakers included Veronica Munoz, president of the Wildwood Park Neighborhood Association; Lynne Wear, Neighborhood Association Council representative; Councilmember Fred Shorett; and Marzullo’s children L.T. Marzullo, Chris Marzullo and Tiffany Baldwin.

The color guard of the Public Safety Academy of San Bernardino presented the colors to Marzullo’s brothers Emil and Paul Marzullo, who raised the flag, and Marzullo’s niece Emily Cardoza Marzullo sang the national anthem, accompanied by his nephew Tim Cummins.

Marzullo’s grandchildren led the flag salute, and then the crowd sang “America the Beautiful.”

The flagpole and its installation were made possible by donations to a Gofundme account, cash donations and in-kind services. Those from the city of San Bernardino who were instrumental in the project include Lydie Gutfield, director of Parks, Recreation and Community Services; Ernesto Salinas, Operations and Maintenance Division manager; and Sean Mcclintock.

UC Fence owner Jason Valenzuela donated the installation of the marker at the flagpole’s base.

COURTESY PHOTO