Capt. Ulysses O. Zalamea, chief of staff to Commander, Joint Region Marianas, said the important role of the veterans cannot be denied whether the country is at peace or at war.
Zalamea was the keynote speaker during the ceremony held at the Court of Honor and Flag Circle at American Memorial Park.
“Today we show our respect to our loved ones, our friends who did not return home. We say ‘thank you’ to those who currently serve our country, and we honor all our nation’s veterans, past and present for their dedication and sacrifice,” he added.
Zalamea said these heroes come from all walks of life — young or old, rich and poor — but they all share one thing in common, “and it is a love for this great country.”
“These heroes include the CNMI’s sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, mothers and fathers. Their gallantry and courage have inspired us all and through their sacrifice and dedication, our nation has been strengthened and renewed,” Zalamea told the over 300 guests, veterans and family members of those who have served in Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, Iraq, Afghanistan the Horn of Africa and other parts of the world.
Zalamea said there are approximately 1,200 veterans in the CNMI which has 400 active servicemembers.
“On Veterans Day, we have an opportunity to thank every Marine, sailor, soldier, airman and coast guardsmen who has ever worn the uniform for what they have done, and thank those who are still in uniform for what they continue to do for the United States every day,” Zalamea said.
In his message, Gov. Benigno R. Fitial said the spirit of patriotism continues to live on in the commonwealth and in the rest of the nation.
He said Veterans Day was yet “another reminder of the journey our forefathers took to secure, defend and preserve the freedom we enjoy each single day.”
“Without our veterans, we wouldn’t be where we are today. Without you, we won’t be able to reach where we could be tomorrow,” he said.
CNMI Military and Veterans Affairs office Executive Director Ruth Coleman said more than 1.4 million Americans are on active duty, serving in harm’s way to defend the safety of 380 million Americans and bring freedom to millions around the world.
“While I may not be the first one to thank our veterans for their service, I ask each of you to ensure that I am not the last one who thanks them today and every day throughout the coming years,” Coleman said.
Yesterday’s guest speaker was Lt. Cmdr. Felton Gilmore, chief of prevention, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Guam.
The Pacific Winds Concert Band performed the ceremonial music while a B-52 aircraft from the 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron 36th Wing at the Andersen Air Force Base on Guam conducted a fly-by after the wreath-laying ceremony at the Court of Honor and Flag Circle.
