When Spring Hill’s Diego Gomez came to this country from his native Costa Rica to claim the American dream, he had no idea that he would be helping the people of Hernando heal from what can only be called a national nightmare.
For 15 years, this lawn sculptor–a lawn maintenance specialist at Hernando schools–has transformed his front lawn at 2256 Rio Circle into a fine sculpted tribute to those we lost on Sept. 11, 2001. And this year’s lawn sculpture commemorates the 20th year anniversary of the day that lives in infamy.
“Never Forget” portrays a compelling image of New York’s fallen Twin Towers against the backdrop of an American flag. Alongside this image are the words, “911 20 Years.”
“I became a citizen of this country. I love this country,” said Gomez, who previously owned a lawn care business. “I wanted to do something special to remember those who lost their lives or loved ones on this tragic day. We remember and will never forget that day, 20 years ago.”
This 20 foot wide and 40-foot long lawn sculpture was painted with house paint–and a lot of love.
“I want to show love for those we lost,” he said, “And for the country that survived. And I love doing this for people, every year.”
Gomez’s previous lawn sculptures all featured images of the American flag, along with wording that included the phrases of “NY CITY,” and “UNITED WE STAND.”
Aside from his 9/11 tributes, Gomez also posts special lawn sculptures to celebrate the Fourth of July, featuring images such as The Liberty Bell. He created sculpted tributes to his son and daughter upon their graduation days from Springstead High School.
Gomez says that, when people drive by his home to behold his art, they often wave and say, “Thank you.” And he encourages the public to drive by his latest monument. To love. To remember. Even to celebrate.
“We survived the worst,” he said. “This is the greatest country in the world.”
