In his keynote message, Capt. John K. Russ, Submarine Squadron Fifteen commander, recognized the veterans “who have endured incredible challenges and horrors of combat like being hunkered down in a freezing foxhole subject to artillery bombardment for days on end, storming a beach under withering enemy fire and more — that many of us have never come close to experiencing.”
He also gave recognition to another group that has often overlooked — the families of veterans.
“The military families—mothers, fathers, wives, husbands, and children that hold the fort and keep the home fires burning are the key to the strength of our veterans,” Russ said.
He said that last year, President Obama signed a proclamation declaring November as Military Family month.
In his remarks, Gov. Benigno R. Fitial said the spirit of patriotism continues to live on in the CNMI.
“I personally believe that the best way to honor our veterans is to actively be a part of preserving and upholding freedom in America. We all have a social responsibility to teach future generations the true essence of the ‘land of the free and the home of the brave.’”
The ceremony included a fly-by of a B-52 with the 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron of the 36th Wing Anderson Air Force Base on Guam.
