Fallen heroes, veterans, soldiers honored

“Freedom is not free, and we must never forget the price we paid to gain all that we have and all that we cherish.”

Keynote speaker Rear Admiral Arthur J. Johnson said this in yesterday’s Memorial Day ceremony held at the Veterans Memorial Park in Susupe, stressing the importance of reflection and recognition of fallen heroes, veterans, and individuals currently serving in the military.

The U.S. Pacific Command Representative of Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau and Commander of the U.S. Naval Forces Marianas said the Memorial Day commemoration should forever continue, as it also serves as a time to remember, honor, and thank individuals responsible for the country’s freedom.

“We must remember and thank veterans who paid the ultimate price and sacrificed their all for our nation,” he said. “Let us never forget to thank all those who have served and continue to serve to ensure our freedom and magnificent way of life. [Also] by remembering and honoring these heroes, we send the unmistakable message to soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and their families that their service and sacrifice will not be soon forgotten.”

Further, Johnson said Memorial Day ceremonies “help us find hope for our uncertain future.”

“We remember our past to illuminate the way and ensure our future,” he added.

During his brief remarks, acting Gov. Diego T. Benavente expressed the CNMI’s gratefulness to the nation’s armed forces.

“We are grateful as individuals, as a people, for the willing sacrifices that our brothers and sisters in the military services have made and are still making…so that we may continue to enjoy the blessings of liberty,” he said.

He asked people to continue to pray and remember the troops currently engaged in the attle in Iraq.

The ceremony also featured placing of wreaths by Johnson, Benavente, Saipan Mayor Juan B. Tudela, members of VFW Post 3457, members of the CNMI Veterans Association, and members of the U.S. Armed Forces Association at the VMP.

Guests present also placed flags at the VMP.

The ceremony also featured a 21-gun salute, executed by Company E, 100th Battalion, 442nd (SEP) Infantry of the U.S. Army Reserve.

JROTC cadets from Saipan Southern, Kagman, and Marianas high schools were also involved in the ceremony, responsible for the posting of flags, distribution of drinks, and releasing of balloons.

The ceremony was also attended by members of the Legislature, veterans, and current members of the military.

For the third straight year, pre-ceremonial music, as well as the U.S. and CNMI anthems, were provided by the Pacific Winds Concert Band.

Also, a special Mass was held on Sunday at the Mount Carmel Cathedral, dedicated to all active-duty military members, reservists, local Marine scouts, and veterans who have participated or have been deployed in the past and present to any areas of conflicts around the world. The service was also dedicated for military members who may be deployed in the future.