Memorial Day, a time to remember

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Rey Ramon
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AB, Japan --  On May 26 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. 

Members of Team Kadena joined local veterans to remember the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice 'to give their tomorrows for our today.' 

"It's only fitting that we take that one day to remember those that fell," said Marine Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Peter Gorczewski, ceremony guest speaker. "But for those of us that experienced combat, Memorial Day is everyday." 

Sgt. Maj. Gorczewski enlisted in 1965 and served several tours in Vietnam. He lost several Marines there. 

"When you lose a man in combat, you're not experiencing a personal loss but a national tragedy," he said. 

In addition to Sgt. Maj. Gorczewski's remarks, the ceremony also featured a performance by the Kadena High School Junior ROTC drill team and a 21-gun salute by the Kadena Air Base Honor Guard. 

Colonel Manson O. Morris, 18th Wing vice commander offered a few brief remarks at the ceremony and reminded everyone of the tangible costs of freedom and praised those who spend their lives guarding it. 

"Our nation has been blessed by an ever present commitment in its people - a commitment to something greater than themselves," said Col. Morris. "I am honored to be here today with you as we share in renewing that commitment, by giving thanks for those whose selfless service has made it possible for us to live the lives we do." 

"It's vital for us to remember, especially with the current situation in Iraq," said Senior Master Sgt. Andre Parker, 18th Aerospace Medicine Squadron bioenvironmental superintendent and chairman of the Memorial Day committee. "Each day we're losing men and women from all branches of service and I think we would be remiss not to take time to commemorate those who lost their lives in defense of our country and our values." 

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. 

I have a great deal of awe and respect for the young men and women in uniform because I know what's expected of them, said Sgt. Maj. Gorczewski. 

"It would behoove us not to forget the importance of this day and realize it's more than just a day off from work," said Sergeant Parker. "This is a day to pay respects to those who wear the uniform and have yet to come home."