It was a sea of red, white and blue at Veteran’s Memorial Park on Monday for the Memorial Day remembrances and activities.
A crowd of nearly 200 men, women and children came, holding flags and wearing patriotic colors, as they watched and listened to an impressive line-up of speakers and performers.
Richard Simpson, president and Honor Guard commander led off the ceremony with the Orange Blossom Gardens VFW Post 10126 Honor Guard presenting the colors.
“I am pleased with the turnout on such a warm morning. It is a tribute to all veterans when this many people come to show their respect,” he said.
Ninety-three-year-old World War II veteran Hank Vandeberkt, who had the chance to fly on Villages Honor Flight last year, had a front row seat at Monday’s Memorial Day service.
“Each and every veteran has a remarkable story to tell,” he said. “God bless them all.”
Donna Rankin from the Village of Hacienda Hills was proudly displaying a photo of her uncle, Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Harry Hunter.
“I am here in remembrance of him. He was a great man,” she said.
The ceremony continued with the Sounds of Scotland marching in to Green Hills of Tyrol while the service color flags representing the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard were proudly displayed. Following the service flags were the Organizational flags representing American Legions from around the area, POW’s and Vietnam Vets Chapter 136.
Private Al Herbst, a member of the Jewish War Veterans, carried the flag for his organization.
“It was a great honor to be asked,” he said.
Retired Sgt. Elvin Schuetz, who traveled on Honor Flight two weeks ago, was the guest speaker. He was clearly overcome by the warm reception and turnout.
“When we returned from Korea, we didn’t have a parade or welcome home reception from anyone,” he said. “When I returned from the Honor Flight at 2 a.m. to 200 cheering people, bands, police escorts and people waving flags and singing, THAT was the welcome home that myself and a lot of the Honor Flight veterans never got after the war and deserved. Today is very similar to that wonderful experience.”
The wreath placement was performed by members of the OBG Honor Guard before a 21-gun salute to honor those who have fallen.
A poem read by Ursala Simpson summed up the meaning of the day.
“While you are enjoying your picnics and families today, remember how much the fallen soldiers would like to be there with you. Everyday is Memorial Day for those who are gone.”
