MEDICAL LAKE – Area residents gathered under blue skies at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery on May 30 to honor and respect members of the military that paid the ultimate price as defenders of the nation.
As the flag waved in the cool breeze, Mr. Rudy Lopez, Director of the Washington State Veterans Cemetery made opening statements regarding the meaning behind the observance.
“We’re here today to honor the brave men and women who answered our nation’s call and gave their last full measure in defense of our great nation,” Lopez said. “All are true American heroes and as such it is only fitting we reflect on their service and their many sacrifices bestowing honor in this hallowed shrine.”
Retired Chaplain LTC Jerry Malone, led the audience in an invocation after the presentation of the colors by the Fairchild Air Force Base Honor Guard. The Lilac City Community Band also played service medleys as part of the ceremony.
Lopez’s words were echoed by David Puente, Washington Department of Veterans Affairs Deputy Director who also asked audience members to take a moment of silence at 3 p.m. Puente also encouraged people to continue telling the stories of loved ones they have lost.
“Only those who have shared in your loss can understand the ultimate sacrifice,” Puente said. “My hope is that you are comforted by your fond memories and encouraged by your loved one’s life and the legacy they leave behind. Please continue to share those stories and legacies so future generations have a greater understanding of what it means to serve and sometimes sacrifice.”
Another dignitary present for the observance was Ryan Pettit, senior advisor for National Security for United States Senator Patty Murray’s office.
“No words, no matter how skillfully written or delivered can fully capture the selflessness and the valor of those we are here to honor today,” Pettit said. “There is a famous quote from the Band of Brothers movie, where Henry tells his troops as they are about to go into battle at Agincourt, he who sheds his blood with me today will be my brother.
“But I think there is a deeper meaning,” he continued. “It’s more than one day at Agincourt, it’s more than one day at Iwo Jima or Helmund, it’s across the ages. Everyone who has sacrificed, who has fought are all brothers and sisters.”
After speeches concluded, Taps was played in memoriam followed by a moment of silence, and a rendition of Amazing Grace was played by Kenyon Fields with the Angus Scott Pipe Band.
Representative Jenny Graham (R-Spokane) was in attendance.
“It is good to see so many people come out for this and show respect for those we lost,” Graham said. “They have certainly earned it.”
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