HILO, Hawaii: Hawaii County joined the rest of the nation in observance of Memorial Day on Monday.
Here at the East Hawaii Veterans Cemetery, the public laid flowers on the graves of loved ones lost long ago. Nearby, veterans and community members gathered to honor those fallen in the defense of liberty during a morning ceremony. The event included in a wreath laying and floral tribute to the lost soldiers, with music from the Hawaii County Band. The participants were escorted by the youngsters of the Hawaii Island Youth ChalleNGe Academy. Then, funeral volley fired by the 291st Combat Communications Squadron, and a rendition of taps.
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This year, the event was attended by Governor Neil Abercrombie. Organizers believe it was a first for a Hawaii head of state.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Lt. Col. Rolland Niles, the commander at Pohakuloa Training Area.
Mahalo to Big Island Video News for an excellent article and video. Also, mahalo nui loa for mentioning the cadets from your Hawaii Island, Hawaii National Guard Youth Challenge Academy.
We were humbled to be invited to participate in this years ceremony, and given the honor and responsibility for the floral escort duties. The cadets were taught that because of the sacrifices made by our veterans, they have the opportunity to participate in the Youth Challenge Academy.
On behalf of Director Richard Campbell, I thank you for providing coverage of the highest quality for our veterans, and reminding us of how precious our freedoms are.
Respectfully,
Frank L. Castagnetti
Deputy Director
Hawaii National Guard Youth Challenge Academy-Kulani
(Sgt-USMC, Marine Corps League, Camp Tarawa Detachment)
Mr. Castagnetti modestly understates the contribution of his Youth Challenge Academy cadets from Kulani. We could not have put this ceremony on without their support. They did everything: Set up chairs, escorted the Governor, escorted and assisted the presenters of floral tributes, and cleaned up the pavilion after the event. These young women & men are obviously well trained and highly motivated and we deeply appreciate their support.
Mahalo Nui Loa,
NormanS. Stahl
Lt. Colonel of Marines (Retired)
Chief of Staff, Camp Tarawa Detachment
Marine Corps League