SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii -- Soldiers, family members and Hawaii residents gathered at the Post Cemetery, here, for a Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony, May 30.
“This is an occasion of remembrance and rededication" a commemoration of those who have fallen and a celebration of those who serve,” said Col. Douglas Mulbury, commander, U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii.
Representatives from the Disabled American Veterans, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the garrison command group paid their respects, as representatives placed wreaths under the half-staff flag during the ceremony.
The remembrance ceremony recognized the sacrifices that have been made in conflicts, past and present.
“To those who have paid the supreme sacrifice, and to those who continue to guard and defend our way of life,” Mulbury said, “we remember you.”
Salutes, including a three-volley salute by seven members of the 516th Signal Brigade, 311th Sig. Command’s rifle firing squad, preceded honors to the national ensign, which was raised to the top of the flagpole and then lowered to half staff.
The lonely and haunting playing of taps offered a final reminder of the ultimate sacrifice American service members have made since they first arrived for duty in Hawaii in 1898.
“I want to thank those young Soldiers that are still out on the front lines fighting for our freedom and our well-being,” said Sammy Houseberg, senior vice
commander, Disabled American Veterans, who was among the ceremonial wreath presenters.
Dozens of friends and family members were also present throughout the morning. They placed fresh flowers and lei at the gravesites of loved ones.
For others, including Mulbury, this day of remembrance was a personal reminder.
“It’s a very emotional time for me because I have commanded in combat, and I’ve lost Soldiers in combat,” he said. “It’s something that you live with for the rest of your life, but you want to honor them today, and always.”
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