Simple words, but nonetheless heartfelt. I just returned from the Eighteenth Annual Memorial Day Observance at El Toro Memorial Park in Lake Forest. This lovely old, county-owned cemetery is home to oak trees that are over 100 years old. It was a beautiful setting today with the temperature a mild 70o. I sat among possibly 300 others who had gathered to honor those who have given so much to preserve our freedom and to purchase the freedom of so many others.
The National Anthem, America the Beautiful. and Battle Hymn of the Republic were sung by the Saddleback Master Chorale. All three were touching songs that stir the memories within each of us.
Richard Vaughn, the emcee of VFW Edward J. Kearns Post 6024 delivered a heartfelt reading of "The Death of Captain Waskow" the Pulitzer Prize winning article from World War II written by journalist Ernie Pyle. There were few dry eyes.
There was a very special presentation to the family of Cpl. Jimmie Dorser. He was one of the hundreds missing in action from the Korean War. His remains were discovered along with those of four other soldiers in a Korean farmer's field. Through DNA his remains were identified and in February found their final resting place here at El Toro Memorial Park. Jimmie was only 18. His sisters and a niece were present to be presented with the flag commemorating the 50th anniversary of the end of the Korean War. Finally, some closure for this lovely family who sacrificed one of their own for our freedom and for the freedom of South Korea.
Jim Clements 1st Vice-Commander, American Legion Post 862 read General Logan's Order of 1858 that was the basis for presidential declaration that May 30th of each year should be set aside to honor those who have died serving our country. We originally called it Decoration Day as it is a day to decorate the graves of our heroes. Mr. Clements shared this with us to help us to appreciate that this is not a holiday, but a time to honor those who have given their all for us.
Following was a moment of silence, placing of the wreaths, traditional 21 gun salute, taps played by Sean Burdick, and the service closed with a benediction by Rev. Christopher McCullough of VFW Saddleback Valley Post 2660.
As I walked to my car, I felt compelled to shake the hand of each man and woman wearing uniforms, caps, jackets, anything to indicate their service. I began shaking their hands, saying, "Thank you for your service", then simply "Thank you", and finally overcome, all I could do was shake their hands and nod in appreciation.
To each of you who have served, or have a loved one who has served or serves our country today...Thank you for your service.
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