“In quiet services across our country today, we come together as a nation to remember those lost in the clash of battle, the thunder of bombs, the roar of tanks, the rumbling of airplanes flying overhead and the scream of artillery shells.
“This Memorial Day, we come together to appreciate the freedom that we enjoy today as we honor the sacrifices that paid for it. As we enjoy living in the land of the free and the home of the brave, we must continue to remind Americans that there is no freedom without bravery. And those we honor today were brave when it counted the most.”
— Welcoming remarks by Commander Dan Bujok, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2669, Port Orchard
MANCHESTER — About 100 onlookers — veterans, family and community members — listened as Commander Dan Bujok of the Port Orchard Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2669 spoke of the supreme sacrifice many American service members made in the defense of the nation throughout its history.
Bujok led a short, but poignant Memorial Day ceremony in memory of fallen soldiers May 27 in front of the Manchester Community Library. Under sunny skies, Chaplain David Weinert offered an invocation, followed by the flag raising and pledge of allegiance, and the singing of the National Anthem by Rashmi Ballard.
A rifle salute and taps ended the ceremony, which was presented by the VFW post, Combat Veterans International, Port of Manchester and the Friends of the Manchester Library.
VFW Post 2669 Commander Dan Bujok delivers welcoming remarks to veterans and community members at the Manchester Veterans Memorial Observance at the Manchester Community Library on Memorial Day. (Bob Smith | Kitsap Daily News)
VFW Post 2669 Commander Dan Bujok delivers welcoming remarks to veterans and community members at the Manchester Veterans Memorial Observance at the Manchester Community Library on Memorial Day. (Bob Smith | Kitsap Daily News)
Veterans and community members look on during the playing of the National Anthem at the Manchester Veterans Memorial Observance at the Manchester Community Library on Memorial Day. (Bob Smith | Kitsap Daily News)
A bugler plays taps at the Manchester Veterans Memorial Observance at the Manchester Community Library on Memorial Day. (Bob Smith | Kitsap Daily News)
