USS Stethem officers, AMMA directors join governor at 30th birthday of AMP

Officers of the visiting USS Stethem, led by its commanding officer Shan Byrne, as well as Board of Directors of the Arizona Memorial Museum Association joined CNMI Gov. Benigno R. Fitial and the National Park Service at Saturday’s wreath laying ceremony for the 30th anniversary celebration of the American Memorial Park on Saipan.

The ceremonies began with the procession of the state and territory flags by the Saipan Southern High School and Kagman HS cadets followed by the posting of colors.

VFW Chaplain Milton Coleman led the invocation before NPS Superintendent Sarah Breachbaum and Fitial game inspiring messages.

Breachbaum thanked some individuals as well as the people of CNMI who were responsible for the continued improvement of the park.

She acknowledged Frank Cepeda for his donation of the flags for the procession, Coleman’s effort, Master Sergeant Berg from the Kagman HS, Sergeant Major Juaquine Kioshi of the JROTC Program of Saipan Southern HS, Ralfeaela Percy for civilian support and others.

Fitial was joined by Byrne, Coleman, and Navy officer Don Williams during the wreath-laying.

Breachbaum also acknowledged the presence of members of the AMMA led by its president Tom Shaw. The others were Capt. George Sullivan (USN Ret.), Capt. Patricia Lucas (USN Ret.) and Alby Saunders (Board member).

Shaw was pleased that AMMA has been a part of the celebration and said they are honored to be able to help in commemorating the 30 years of the park.

He said this is a tribute to the men who fought during the battle of Marianas and the Philippines Sea.

Shaw said some 5,000 sailors, Marines, and Army personnel who fought and perished.

He said that AMMA had an agreement with three national parks in the Pacific particularly in Hawaii, Guam, and CNMI, to sell books and hold activities for fundraising that will ultimately goes to the parks in terms of educational programs.

Shaw explained that it is through educational program the only way for the young generation to know what happened some 60 years ago.

Afternoon activities included film showing, beads of marines making, art demonstration, presentation of cake, and other activities that drew children and grandchildren of war veterans and tourists alike.