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Tinian holds own Veterans Day celebrations
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Posted on Nov 13 2011
The island of Tinian hosted its own Veterans Day celebration, remembering in particular its own sons who have sacrificed their lives in defense of freedom.
“We are proud of their accomplishments and of the attestation of their patriotism,” Tinian Mayor Ramon Dela Cruz said in his remarks on Nov. 11 which he described as a “special day.”
This patriotism, Dela Cruz said, is “meaningful” when you take into account the number of men and women from the Commonwealth who enlist as service members.
“I believe that the magnitude of our patriotism sharply contrasts our diminutive demographics,” he said.
Dela Cruz said Tinian was once considered “the unknown” for those who fought during World War II, “brave men who stood in harm’s way and protected our land.”
The Tinian mayor concurred with President Barack Obama, who said that “there is no tribute, no commemoration, no praise that can truly match the magnitude of their service and sacrifice.”
“I can think of no higher sacrifice than that of someone leaving the comfort of their home and venturing out into the unknown, with such determination to protect our democratic system so that our lives and those of their children and grandchildren may be secured and peaceful,” said Dela Cruz.
Dela Cruz said Tinian salutes veterans “on this special day and always.”
“It is my wish that as we continue to enjoy our peace, we continue to also give thanks to those who secure it for us. I am certain that these islands shall never forget those sacrifices in the years to come,” he added.
Saipan also marked Veterans Day with a ceremony held on the “11th hour, 11th day, 11th month” or last Friday at the American Memorial Park Court of Honor.
