Remembering our Fallen: Memorial Day 2009 Published May 27, 2009 By Staff Sgt. Christopher Hummel 18th Wing Public Affairs KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- On May 25 service members gathered at Kadena Air Base to pay homage to the more than a million Americans who have died in past wars including Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. Brig. Gen. Brett T. Williams presided over the annual Memorial Day Ceremony and spoke of past sacrifices of our fallen heroes. In addition to the general's remarks, the ceremony also featured performances from the Kadena High School Chorus singing the Kimigaya and Star Spangled Banner, followed by a demonstration by the KHS Air Force Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps drill team and a 21-gun salute by the base Honor Guard. The United States loses over 1,200 veterans every day that served in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Though they take with them their experiences, their stories and their legacy of sacrifice remain behind. General Williams shared a personal story with the attendees, he explained it is our responsibility as Americans to ensure future generations understand why they should take time out of their day to honor those who have given their lives in the name of freedom.