This year’s Memorial Day Ceremony was conducted by the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 8 Mesa at the City of Mesa Cemetery on Monday, May 26th. The weather was great, the turnout was good, and the DAV did a superb job in putting the ceremony together with Master of Ceremonies Sid Hagel leading the event. Representing VFW Post 1760 was Commander-new elect Dan Wilson, and also in attendance was Club Committee member Matt Olsen and Junior Vice Commander-new elect Frank “Gunny” Alger leading his East Valley Young Marines unit in color guard duties.
The proceedings started with EVYM 1STSGT Caleb Alger and the EVYM unit presenting a retired star for each veteran. This was followed by the East Valley Young Marines Color Guard posting colors for the ceremony, and a greeting from DAV Commander Marvin Haines with leading the ceremony in a Pledge of Allegiance. Next we had Chaplin Mike Pappa in an Invocation, and Junior Vice Commander Howard Doll of the DAV with a welcome speech and some opening remarks with that day’s ceremony. The following excerpt was read to those in attendance;
“Veteran organizations, family and friends have gathered here to pay homage to our fallen Mesa Veterans. We wish to thank the Daughters of the American Revolution, American Legion, VFW, and DAV along with their respective auxiliary organizations for being here at this annual ceremony. We are proud that you are here honoriing those that died to keep us free. God bless our fallen men and women from all branches of the military that have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country, Arizona, and Mesa.”
The proceedings continues with Mesa City Council Member Dennis Cavanaugh sharing a few words, and keynote speaker Captain Steve Borden USN (Retired) sharing a heartfelt speech to those in attendance. This was followed with the “Laying of the Wreaths” ceremony, than a rifle salute by the American Legion Post 26 Honor Guard “Salute the Dead”, and with Taps by buglers Hans Jessen and an American Legion representative. Chaplin Mike Pappa gave his Benediction and then the ceremony was dismissed by the MOC. In all, this year’s Memorial Day was a good day shared by all in attendance.
