Bend Ceremony Honors the Ultimate Sacrifice
From the reading of the names across the country to the laying of a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery, millions of American’s paused Monday to remember those killed serving our country.
It was no different in Bend, as the bagpipes opened a memorial service held at the Deschutes Memorial Gardens.
“Comrades, attention!” said the event’s emcee, “On this day, for which is forever consecrated to our heroic dead, we are assembled to honor our heroic dead, to express sincere reverence.”
It was a somber but inviting scene as hundreds gathered to remember those who lost their lives serving their country.
“We stand in awe of that sacrifice that many have made over those several hundred years to ensure life and liberty,” said one speaker.
Those who served stood side by side with family and friends, all to remember those who died to keep us free.
Oregon Army National Guard Capt. Joseph Snyder addressed those who gathered telling the story’s of the brave men and women of Oregon who were taken too soon.
“In the face of imminent danger, Private First Class Martini immediately crawled over a dike to an area 15 meters within the enemy position,” said Snyder, “where continually exposed to hostile fire, he hurled hand grenades, killing several of the enemy. Crawling back under intense fire, he rejoined his platoon, which he had moved to relative safety of a trench line.”
Several wreaths adorned with flowers were placed at the memorial by Central Oregon organizations.
As the ceremony continued, a mother and daughter walked hand in hand, and a couple sat in silence in the cemetery, covered with flags marking the graves of fallen soldiers.
“It’s just a real honor to have these families come out here, and that we are able to provide this venue for them,” said Mike Garcia, funeral director at Deschutes Memorial Gardens.
As the rifle salute rang out, many people wiped tears from their eyes as they remembered loved ones.
Taps played in the background as the American flags waved in the wind — the symbol of freedom the brave men and women sacrificed their life for.
