Memorial Day

Memorial Day is always an emotional time, but this years is a little more poignant as it is the first Memorial Day since our local reserve unit the 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines, returned from service in Iraq. This is the unit that lost 20 members in the course of three days last August. You can read more of their story here. At the memorial ceremony this past March, the Battalion Commander gave the following remarks which are quoted here in their entirety since they pretty well sum up what Memorial Day is all about and also include the names of the fallen:

Today we pause to honor thirteen American service men…thirteen brothers-in-arms…thirteen friends. Their lives touched us; their deaths sadden us and their heroism inspires us.

What I have to say will be far less eloquent than the heartfelt tributes just given and pales in comparison to the sacrifice made by these valiant men, but to remain silent--to squander an opportunity to praise these American heroes--would be a travesty. Today we join with many grateful people throughout the world to thank these brave men for giving their lives for us. Trusted, respected, and loved, these men were unique individuals whose courage, honor and commitment will forever be remembered.

In this morning’s ceremony we paid our respects to thirteen incredibly courageous and selfless men. Our homage is both appropriate and right; but our debt is not paid. Tomorrow and every day hence, we must continue to honor these fallen warriors by protecting the innocent and eliminating the terrorists. We must accomplish our mission; because when all is said and done, our actions will be our most enduring memorial to these noble men.

During World War II, another trying time in our nation’s history, President Franklin Roosevelt eulogized a fallen American solider by saying, “He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die [that] freedom might live, and grow, and increase its blessings. Freedom lives, and through it he lives--in a way that humbles the undertakings of most men.” These stirring words ring true for each of the gallant men honored here today.

Staff Sergeant Ivy, Staff Sergeant Goodwin, Sergeant Cepeda, Sergeant Marzano, Corporal Derga, Corporal Tremblay, Lance Corporal Davids, Lance Corporal Erdy, Lance Corporal Graham, Lance Corporal Grant, Lance Corporal Grez, Private First Class Dixon and Hospital Corpsman Third Class Wiener:

May they rest in peace; may God bring comfort to those who mourn them; and may they never be forgotten.

Semper Fidelis.