Mural dedication honoring Ewing Elementary School's namesake

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Close to 900 Ewing Elementary students watched in awe as their schools newest feature was unveiled.

"They can enjoy history in books but also in their own school on the walls," said Jose Elias, artist.

What was proposed as a mural that would reflect the school community became an ode to the past that future generations can enjoy. It showcases the areas rich agriculture, iconic Fresno buildings, the school mascot, and namesake.

The prominent figures on each side-- local heroes Richard Anderson and Brad Sexton. The two pilots lost their lives during a military training exercise when their Lear jet crash into the Olivewood Apartments.

"It would've been the office and our two classrooms that would've been impacted had they not kept that airplane in the air another 30 feet," said Dawn Loyd, teacher.

Teachers Loyd and Kim Vasquez remember their students were outside for recess as the plane made its descent.

Vasquez said, "They actually saw the pilots and saw the plane go over and he saw the school and avoided the school."

The damage and debris covered two city blocks-- 21 People were injured.

"We finally have a wall that tells our story of our school, the original person that it was named after-- these guys are a huge part of it, it just finally tells our story here," said Vasquez.

The artist spent three weeks working on the mural day and night. He said he wanted to make sure the students had a nice surprise when they got back to school.

Elias was commissioned to paint the mural but didn't realize the reaction his work would inspire.

"I feel so grateful enjoying their applause. It was so nice."