-Courtesy photo / Susan Motander
By Susan Motander
The Allied Veterans Council held its annual Memorial Day remembrance at Live Oak Cemetery in Monrovia on Monday. In her opening remarks, Janine Coyle, Secretary/Treasurer of the group, noted that it was the 100th anniversary of the entry of the United States into World War I.
She displayed a flag she had found in the archives of the Council. The silk banner was dedicated to the widows of those who died in that war, the war that was supposed to ‘end all wars.’
The ceremony followed its usual routine of tributes to all those who “paid the ultimate price,” and as usual it was moving and solemn. Condor Squadron flew overhead in the “Missing Man” formation.
What was a bit unusual was the salute to those who had served in the various branches of the military. In years past, the different branches were announced and those who had served in that branch rose to be recognized. This year, the Monrovia High School Band played a medley of the anthems of each branch. As the songs were played, those who had served in that branch rose.
Those in attendance began clapping in sync with the music. In this reporter’s opinion, it was more personal and moving than in years past.
