Friday, March 29, 2024

Emotions Run Deep This Memorial Day

 

Master Sergeant John Clampitt, USMC (Ret) reads General Logan’s 11th General Order at Monday’s Memorial Day services at Star Park. Photos by Joe Ditler.

On Monday, veterans from all services, dating back to World War II, turned out at Star Park for the traditional remembrance of fallen comrades – Memorial Day.

Hundreds filled the park and lined the surrounding street and yards. It was a gray, cold and drizzly day, but there was a feeling in the air that settled over those in attendance like a warm blanket. Indeed, emotions ran deep this Memorial Day.

The Honor Guard helped close Memorial Day services at Star Park with a 21-gun salute.

There was a palatable feeling of pride; pride in country and pride in fellow man. From the Presentation of Colors to the final blowing of “Taps,” the audience received the day’s message with passion and enthusiasm.

It was reflected in the singing; in the applause; and in the faces of those who had lost loved ones. Afterwards, numerous of those in attendance came forward to thank organizers and elected officials. Many said it was the finest Memorial Day tribute they could remember.

Six-year-old Brooke Proctor attended Memorial Day services with her grandmother, Ann Sonne.

That word “remember” appears in the Bible 148 times. As LCDR Paul Hyder gave the Invocation, we were reminded of this. As VADM Thomas Rowden spoke about the meaning of Memorial Day, you could have heard a pin drop, as all those in attendance did just that – remember.

Memorial Day services are presented each year by Coronado Post 2422 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, in conjunction with the United States Navy League, the City of Coronado and the Military Officers’ Association of America (Silver Strand Chapter).

The Presentation of Colors at Memorial Day services, at Star Park.

 



Joe Ditler
Joe Ditler
Joe Ditler is a professional writer, publicist and Coronado historian. Formerly a writer with the Los Angeles Times, he has been published in magazines and newspapers throughout North America and Europe. He also owns Part-Time PR (a subsidiary of Schooner or Later Promotions), specializing in helping Coronado businesses reach larger audiences with well-placed public relations throughout the greater San Diego County. He writes obituaries and living-obituaries under the cover "Coronado Storyteller." To find out more, write or call [email protected], or (619) 742-1034.

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