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‘We must honor veterans everyday’
Veterans line up to get their certificates. (Mackenzie Perez)
Acting governor Victor B. Hocog joined CNMI officials and other members of the community in last Friday’s commemoration of Veterans Day at the American Memorial Park. Vietnam War veterans were among those who were honored in an almost hour-long ceremony.
Hocog, who represented the administration as Gov. Ralph DLG Torres was off-island, said the community should always remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice of choosing to serve the nation. “[Friday] marks the day we come together to honor all our veterans.”
“Not only those veterans who survived the war but also those who died, for their ultimate sacrifice in providing the people of the CNMI and the entire nation to enjoy freedom, liberty, and keeping our safety,” said Hocog.
He said he always had goose bumps whenever he has the chance to talk to veterans who survived the horrors of war. “They really deserve our respect. After all they made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.”
“They endured the times of war and I can only imagine the hardships they experienced during actual battle. That’s why I always get goose bumps whenever I talk to our veterans and hear their stories,” said Hocog. “I wish I had the opportunity to serve but at that time we are all alien and we can’t join the military. I was willing to enlist but there was no opportunity because of our status under the trust territory.”
He also admires the courage shown by families of those who enter the military service. “Their families also sacrifice a lot because God knows if the member of their family or relative would return home safely.
Senate vice president Arnold I. Palacios (R-Saipan) said it was a beautiful day to remember the men and women who chose to serve the people especially those who paid the ultimate sacrifice of giving up their lives. “It’s a beautiful day to take time in recognizing all the sacrifices and services of our veterans
“Especially those who lost their lives. We must always take the time to think of them. Some have struggled with the effects of war and we must continue to pray for them and families that have lost loved ones in times of service to our country.”
