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CNMI starts Memorial Week observance
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Posted on May 19 2009
Veterans of Foreign Wars in the CNMI as well as those in active duty began yesterday their annual observance of Memorial Week in honor of the sacrifices of their fallen comrades.
The Memorial Week is from May 19-25, with Lt. Gov. Eloy S. Inos signing the proclamation at the Governor’s Office conference room yesterday.
Joining him during the signing ceremony was Senate President Pete Reyes, himself a Vietnam War veteran. Two of the 70 members of the Echo Company stationed in Kuwait who are here for R&R were also in attendance, Staff Sgt. Francisco Ada and Sgt. Royal Kelby.
The proclamation states that by honoring soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guard men, it is a way of renewing the commitment to uphold the democratic ideals they fought for.
In observance of this special week, the people of the CNMI are paying tribute to fallen veterans for their unselfish, dedicated service to the nation.
The Memorial Week will culminate on Memorial Day, May 25, with formal ceremonies to be held at the CNMI Veterans Ceremony in Marpi.
Rear Admiral William D. French, commander of the U.S. Naval Forces in the Marianas, will be the keynote speaker.
French, along with Gov. Benigno R. Fitial, military service members and veterans, will lead the laying of wreaths.
On that day, a prayer for peace throughout the world will be offered to remember what was gained and what was lost during times of war.
“From the bravery of the men at the Valley Forge, to the daring of Normandy, the courage of Iwo Jima and the steady resolve in Afghanistan and Iraq, our men and women in uniform have won for us every hour that we live in freedom,” the proclamation states. “As we honor those who have served and have been lost, we better understand the meaning of patriotism and citizenship, and we pledge that their sacrifices will not be in vain.”
