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Honoring those who died for peace on Memorial Day
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Posted on May 30 2005
Those who perished and fought for peace, honor and freedom were given honor during yesterday’s commemoration of Memorial Day.
Despite the early torrential rains, the ceremony went ahead at the Veterans Memorial in Susupe along Beach Road, beginning with a pre-ceremonial music from the Pacific Winds Concert Band.
The Saipan Southern High School Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Manta Ray Battalion handled the posting of the Service Flags and raising of the U.S. and CNMI flags.
Gov. Juan N. Babauta provided a brief speech followed by commanding officer of the visiting USS Frank Cable, Capt. Paul J. Bushong, who was a keynote speaker yesterday.
Col. Juan C. Tenorio, a retired military officer, was also a keynote speaker in yesterday’s hour-long ceremony. He said America believes in fair play and that Americans could achieve their goals if they only set their minds on it.
Babauta, Bushong and Tenorio led the laying of wreaths. Veterans of Foreign Wars, CNMI veterans, CNMI U.S. Armed Forces and American Memorial Park officers also offered wreaths.
Family members of veterans who have passed on led the dramatic placement of flags at the memorial park. The Department of Public Safety followed this up with a 21 Rifle Salute and the Company E, 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry of the U.S. Army Reserve played taps.
Military and Veterans Affairs Office executive officer Ruth Coleman thanked all the guests and officers who attended the event. She said the day would always honor those members of the armed forces who have passed on. “We will remember those who served our great nation so that we enjoy the fruits of freedom of a democratic society,” she said.
Office on Aging director Joseph Palacios said he is glad that the community always honors those who had served for peace and liberation. Having served the country for eight years, he said, he knows the significance of recognizing the men and women who gave their lives for the country.
Masters of ceremony were SFC Richard Haugh and cadet Capt. Karen Echon of Saipan Southern High School’s Manta Ray Battalion.
