I’m very sure our veterans looking down from Heaven this Memorial Day were extremely pleased and proud to be part of Manson’s Memorial Day celebration held at the American Legion Park in Manson, Washington on May 31, sponsored by the American Legion, Post 108.
Prior to the ceremony, Manson Fire Chief Arnold Baker brought Manson’s new fire truck, Tower 51 and deployed it on main street, raising a huge 20 x 30 American flag (purchased by the Manson Firefighters Association), 75 feet off the ground, overlooking the crowd. The weather was perfect, warm temperatures, a light breeze displaying the flag in all its glory! It was an amazing backdrop for what was to follow.
The Lake Chelan Patriotic Singers, under the direction of Steve Davis, inspired those in attendance with several patriotic songs starting at 10:45. The last song, “God Bless American” sounded like a mighty choir as the crowd joined in raising their voices.
At 11:00 sharp, Vice Commander Brian Strausbaugh opened the ceremony with beautiful words recognizing why we were there, to honor those individuals that paid the ultimate price, their life while serving our country. After the opening prayer by American Legion member Dana Starkweather, the Colors were ordered to be brought forward by Vice Commander Strausbaugh. Next a wreath was moved in front of the monument and thirty seconds of silence was ordered. At the same time two Manson High School students, Jonathan Sarmiento and Rex Torgesen, played “Echo Taps” on their trumpets. Their rendition was amazing and there were many positive comments. Post 108’s Adjutant, Carole Hansen shared the meaning of the red, white and blue colors on our American flag.
Vice Commander Strausbaugh introduced our guest speaker, Congresswoman Kim Schrier. Doctor Schrier represents Washington’s 8th Congressional District, which includes much of King, Pierce, Kittitas, and Chelan Counties, and portions of Douglas County. She talked about our incredible veterans and her commitment to supporting veterans in Congress.
Colors were retired and a closing prayer ended the official ceremony. Congresswoman Schrier then presented a Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin to all veterans (25 in attendance) that served our country during the Vietnam Era, November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975. The pins were made available by the Department of Defense as a lasting memento of our Nation’s thanks.
Post 108 gives a special “Thank You” to students from Manson High School for helping set up the event, the Manson Fire Department, Lake Chelan Patriotic Singers and all the individuals that joined us in honoring our fallen veterans.
By Norm Manly
Post Service Officer
