Rainbow Fountain:  TATTOO
During WWII, Long Beach was the Port of Call for thousands of service men and women. Many for the first time in their young lives were far from home, thrust into a global conflict with only their courage, honor and commitment to defend the ideals of constitution, freedom and democracy.

Each found strength in the communal bond of service to their country. Lifelong friendships were forged with tattoos as indelible memories. In the midst of uncertainty, an R & R at the Pike provided a break from the stress, boredom and loneliness. The excitement bonded individuals into an extended family of brothers and sisters experiencing a rekindled childhood shortened by war.

The Pike experience was like a carnival and from this perspective the road home seemed less distant and the reasons to serve our nation magnified.