Large crowd gathers for Memorial Day celebration

MANSON - The Manson American Legion’s Annual Memorial Day celebration was held on May 30, at 11 a.m. on a cool but dry morning. We thank seven students from Manson High School for helping set up tables, chairs and preparing for the event and taking down after. We recognize, and thank members of the Lake Chelan VFW for supporting the event. A big thank you goes out to Manson Fire Chief, Arnold Baker and his crew for bringing Tower 51, their aerial platform truck. They set up on Highway 150 and raised their huge American Flag high above the formalities.

Commander McCullough commenced the remembrance celebration to a large crowd of over 125 people. Chaplain Dana Starkweather provided the opening prayer. The American Legion Posted Colors, Craig Pittson carried the American flag and Brian Strausbaugh brought the Post flag. The Lake Chelan Patriotic Singers, under the direction of Steve Davis led everyone in “God Bless America”.

Commander McCullough spoke of the United States military personnel that paid the ultimate price and the importance we never forget. “Comrades, this day is sacred with the almost visible presence of those who have gone before us. We honor the memory of those who gave their lives in the service of our country and of those others who have dropped their burdens by the wayside of life and are gone to their eternal rest”.

Originally established during the Civil War, Memorial Day honors the 1.17 million men and women who have died to create and maintain the freedoms outlined in our great Constitution.

Kathy Seureau, Past Quartermaster for the Lake Chelan VFW presented flowers at the base of the monument offering these encouraging words, “To commemorate the virtues of our dear departed heroes who served their country in time of need, I now offer our symbolic tributes. I place this red flower to symbolize the zeal of our departed comrades who have fallen in defense of the United States of American upholding brotherhoods, truth and justice. I place this white flower as a token of the purity of affection we have for our departed comrades. May each future generation emulate the unselfish courage of all men and women who fought for freedom. I place this blue flower, from nature’s bosom, which symbolizes truth and fidelity, as a token of our sincere respect for all departed comrades. This emblem of eternity bespeaks life everlasting, thus we immortalize all who gave their lives.

The wreath was brought forward by Carole Hansen and Norm Manly. Lukas and Rex Torgesen, students from Manson High School played Dueling Taps on their trumpets, a haunting tribute to the fallen.

Commander McCullough spoke again saying, “No sorrow for the loved ones left behind could dim the purpose in their souls. No weariness of march and watch could keep them from their hearts’ desire. No horror of the field or sea or could beat their courage down. All who stand with us today, will you not consecrate yourselves with us to emulate their sacred service that those who rest in heroes’ graves may not have died in vain. Let us stand with bowed heads in solemn memory of our heroic dead.”

The Lake Chelan Patriotic Singers led the crowd singing the “Star Spangled Banner” followed by the introduction of our guest speaker, Chelan County Sheriff Brian Burnett. Burnett started his career in Law Enforcement with the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office in 1998. He is serving his third term as Chelan County’s elected sheriff.

Sheriff Burnett stepped to the podium and began his speech by talking about the importance of Memorial Day and that so many men and women have died protecting our freedoms and that we, as civilians need to do everything, we can do to protect our freedoms as well.

He then shared a story about his son, the youngest of five boys. As a young boy, he was afraid of the dark and always wanted a hall light on. As he grew, we watched him play army with oversized camo from the military surplus store. When hiking or mountain biking, he would always pack the U.S. flag and a pole so he could mount and fly the flag from the top of the mountain. It was as if he had a calling on his life to serve his country.

''Currently, my son is in the Army Ranger Program and received the top award, Soldier of the Cycle for his 22-week AIT Infantry Training. Number one out of 165 soldiers. Out of all the things to be proud of, even with all of his outstanding awards or recognitions, the one I’m most proud of is the day he sent pictures home of his army uniform with his name, Burnett, on it along with his “Dog Tags”, said Burnett. “I’ve waited all my life for this and now it’s official.” He was called to serve and had a vision and he has stepped up to answer that call as so many of our fallen heroes have done to protect our freedoms.

American Legion “Appreciation Certificates” were presented to Manson Fire Chief Arnold Baker and Chelan County Sheriff Brian Burnett. The certificates read, “In recognition and grateful appreciation for serving in our community with compassion, dedication and outstanding public service. Your support of our local veterans’ programs and community events has been greatly appreciated”.

Commander McCullough ordered the Color Guard to “Retrieve Colors”. Chaplain Dana Starkweather gave the Benediction then Commander McCullough thanked everyone for attending. There were many positive comments regarding the event.

Maureen White, a Manson resident for many years said, “I’ve been here for 32 years and attended every Manson Memorial Day celebration. This year’s was the best. I love the fact you are including students to participate, the Manson Fire truck hoisting the American Flag almost brought tears to my eyes and I loved what Sheriff Burnett had to say. Great job!”

Lake Chelan VFW members in attendance were Brian Thompson, Chaplain - Dan Smith, Past Post Commander and District Commander - Kathy Seureau, Past Quartermaster, Bob Hoots and Larry Seureau.