On May 26th, the 16th Memorial Day event was held by the Exchange Club of Newport Harbor in Castaways Park in Newport Beach, Orange County. A total of 1,776 American flags, representing the year 1776 when the United States declared independence, were displayed at the park, along with paintings created by children for the event.
The emcee Leo Fracalosy mentioned that Memorial Day helps Americans reflect on the cost of freedom, from the Civil War to current conflicts, and encourages citizens to unite regardless of political or personal beliefs. The event aimed to honor and thank those who have sacrificed to protect the country’s freedom.
Castaways Park, located on a small hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Newport Bay, serves as a solemn backdrop for the annual display of flags known as the “Field of Honor.” This tradition, which began 16 years ago, pays tribute to both living and deceased members of the Armed Forces from any branch.
The “Field of Honor” showcased photos and information about 11 Medal of Honor recipients, with 5 from Orange County and 4 from Los Angeles County. The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces across different branches.
One of the honored heroes featured was Kenneth L. Worley, a Marine Corps Lance Corporal from Westminster, Orange County, who sacrificed his life during the Vietnam War by saving his comrades from a grenade attack at the age of 20.
State Assemblywoman Diane Dixon, attending the event for the 11th time, shared stories of her father and father-in-law who served in WWII, emphasizing the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices made for freedom.
During the commemoration, three Marine Corps members demonstrated the flag-folding ceremony, symbolizing different values such as life, faith, country, courage, justice, and sacrifice. The event concluded with a solemn “Taps” played by Officer Michael Duran from Orange County.
Congressman Dave Min expressed gratitude to the fallen soldiers, highlighting the sacrifices made during the Korean War. He emphasized the significance of each flag and flower representing lives lost in defense of cherished values of freedom and democracy.
Preparations for the event, including flag placement and fundraising, were carried out by volunteers and service members. Proceeds from donations were allocated to support military families. Lydia Ledesma-Reese, a club member, mentioned that flag dedications were a way to honor loved ones.
Yellow ribbons bearing names of the remembered individuals, sometimes accompanied by photos and bios, were tied below the flags. Two 19-year-old fallen heroes from Yorba Linda, Orange County, Grant A. Cotting (Army) and Rick J. Centanni (Marine Corps), who sacrificed their lives in Afghanistan, were remembered.
Newport Beach Mayor Joe Stapleton shared a poignant historical anecdote about high school graduates from the city who joined the military during WWII, with 11 of them giving their lives in service.
The Memorial Day event served as a crucial tradition where the community came together for a powerful and unifying ceremony, promoting reflection on the courage and sacrifices needed to defend freedom. The Exchange Club’s commitment to serving the community and youth through such events was praised by Mayor Stapleton.
The city’s adoption of the 1st Marine Division helped fund medical equipment, assist families of fallen and injured service members, and support the unit’s activities. The local community raised funds for a memorial monument dedicated to all military personnel, symbolizing honor and respect.
Cynthia Strasmann, Chair of the Youth Program at the Exchange Club, highlighted the growth of participation in art and essay competitions, stressing the importance of teaching children about values like honor, freedom, responsibility, kindness, integrity, and patriotism.
Mike Newcomb, a club member and former serviceman, emphasized the significance of educating children to respect the sacrifices of military and emergency personnel, underscoring the importance of appreciating their contributions.
Memorial Day serves as a tribute to heroes who have gone above and beyond their duties by sacrificing their lives for the greater good. Courage, sacrifice, responsibility, country, family, and honor are values that hold profound significance. Retired Navy Colonel Nick Saifan encouraged people to remember and spend time with the families of fallen heroes, engage in volunteer work, and cherish the enduring spirit of those who have sacrificed for the nation.