TERRY Prosser placed a miniature American flag at the foot of the fallen soldiers’ marker in Susupe, as school children and several individuals followed the symbolic gesture to honor the bravery and gallantry of their nation’s heroes on Memorial Day.
Prosser’s cousin was one of the 83 U.S. military personnel from the CNMI that were killed in action.
Over a hundred residents witnessed the commemoration led by commonwealth officials, veterans and their relatives.
Yesterday’s commemoration also honored U.S. military personnel that fought and are fighting against global terrorism.
“This is a ceremony to recognize the debt we owe to those who have fallen in the line of duty to secure our freedom. Today we also pay solemn tribute to our citizens who have given themselves for the freedom we enjoy,” Gov. Juan N. Babauta said.
The commonwealth is “truly grateful” to the veterans and the nation’s military personnel, he said.
“We honor and pray for their families,” Babauta said.
Adm. Patrick W. Dunne, the commander-in-chief of the U.S. Naval Forces in the Marianas, was the guest speaker.
Dunne, in his remarks, lauded the patriotism and spirit of the U.S. armed forces and the veterans.
There are about 54 men and women from the CNMI that served in the military. They and the 83 Marine Scouts were honored yesterday.
Lt. Gov. Diego T. Benavente said it was a “special day for us to be able to recognize the fallen heroes. It is very special for us here on Saipan, for our brothers and sisters (involved) in the fight for freedom.”
Saipan Mayor Juan B. Tudela saluted the veterans’ sacrifices.
Military and Veterans Affairs Director Frank G. Cepeda expressed appreciation for those who have given their “ultimate personal share” for the sake of the nation.
Acting Marianas Visitors Authority Managing Director Vicky I. Benavente said MVA is grateful for the veterans “and those individuals who are far away from home, defending our freedom.”
Wreaths were offered yesterday followed by the firing of the 21 military gun salute while Marianas High School’s bugler sounded the Taps.
Community and Cultural Affairs Secretary Juan L. Babauta told Variety that they were expediting the opening of the veterans cemetery this year.
Also attending the ceremony were Sen. Ramon S. Guerrero, American Reform-Saipan, House Vice Speaker Manuel A. Tenorio, R-Saipan, Rep. Stanley T. Torres, R-Saipan, and Capt. Thomas S. Kennedy, commanding officer of the USS Chancellorsville.
Eula H. Sablan, chairwoman of the Memorial Day Committee, delivered the closing remarks.
“We remember them not only for the pain and the memories they left us, but the comfort of freedom they gave us,” she said.
Sablan is president of the CNMI-U.S. Veterans Association.
