Moved by Memorial Day speech
My husband and I attended the Memorial Day Ceremony at West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery on Monday. Many thanks to VFW Post 12122 Commander Charles Sermons for conducting a moving and respectful remembrance to those who sacrificed their lives to preserve our freedom.
The keynote speaker was Command Sargent Major Luis E. Ortiz, of the U.S. Army Garrison, Pohakuloa Training Area. His message was very moving. He spoke of the honor he felt to be serving this great nation.
He reminded us of the reason we were there, to pay our respects for those who gave their life to defend our country and give us the freedoms we take for granted. He emphasized the need to educate the younger generation, to never forget why we celebrate Memorial Day. He spoke of his best friend from Dearborn, Michigan, who lost his life at 26 in Ramadi from an IED in 2006. His message was profound and our gratitude to him for his service.
Many thanks to West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery and VFW Post 12122 for reminding us of what Memorial Day really stands for.
Therese Roth
Kailua-Kona
Old Glory seems
to be gone
Am I the only vet to notice the absence of The American flag to the entrance of Kona for the last three weeks?
Art McMahon
Kailua-Kona
Lot to be
grateful for
How about something positive for a change?
Firstly, a huge mahalo to the staff, students (as a whole), specifically the third graders who hosted an event, serving delicious, “from garden to plate” cuisine, courtesy of Holuakoa Gardens and Cafe restaurant, specifically, chef and his staff, using all locally organically grown, or raised, products.
There are too many to acknowledge, individually, but mahalo for a wonderful event! To the third graders, great job!
Lastly, congratulations to Kai E Hitu outrigger team on their victory last weekend! Congrats to Richard, holding on to Papa’s dream.
Roy Crytser
Holualoa
