The importance of not only honoring those who have served, but expressing appreciation for their sacrifices was the message during Rancho Bernardo’s Veterans Day ceremony on Monday.
It was held at the RB Veterans Memorial in Webb Park.
“It is a day to remember and reflect … and we also need to celebrate the veterans in our community,” said retired Marine Corps Col. Daren J. Erickson during his keynote speech.
Retired Marine Corps Col. Daren J. Erickson giving the keynote speech at the RB Veterans Day ceremony. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
He said veterans make up about 8% of the American population and around 1.3 to 1.4 million live in San Diego.
Erickson praised veterans for always leading by example, especially during times of hardship and national tragedy, such as those who volunteered to assist the recent hurricane victims.
“They provided to this country and continue to provide,” said Erickson, who is now the executive director of the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego Museum Foundation.
He also recognized the fact that many veterans are struggling, noting that 20 to 40 are lost each day due to depression and other causes.
“That is way too many,” Erickson said, “If you know somebody who is struggling … reach out to them … whether they are family, in our community, a friend … or stranger.”
He said those who serve in the military take the highest oath of all, “to serve all and sacrifice if called upon. … That oath we took on … is a part of our soul.”
Retired Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Paul K. Lebidine, president of the RB Veterans Memorial Association. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
Retired Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Paul K. Lebidine, president of the RB Veterans Memorial Association, reminded attendees to “not forsake our veterans and their contributions.”
See more photos at PomeradoNews.com.
Westview High NJROTC Color Guard members Tristan Champion, Adrian Nuguid, Asher Hannaman and Dezmond Moe. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
Attendees stood at attention as the Westview High’s NJROTC color guard carried the American flag past them at the RB Veterans Day ceremony. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
Scout Matthew Polzin of Scouts BSA Troop 685 leading the pledge of allegiance. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
Scouts BSA members assisted by distributing programs before Rancho Bernardo’s Veterans Day ceremony. They included, in front, Cub Scout Jonah Castaño, Boy Scout Neremiah Castaño and Cub Scout James Hastings. In back, Boy Scouts Ryan Chen and Lalo Coleman. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
Some of the attendees at the Rancho Bernardo Veterans Day ceremony on Monday morning in Webb Park. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
Retired Marine Corps Col. Daren J. Erickson giving the keynote speech at the RB Veterans Day ceremony. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
Will Rios of RBVMA ready to present flowers to 99-year-old World War II veteran Mary Beth Doss, who is receiving a recognition plaque from retired Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Paul K. Lebidine, president of the RBVMA. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
Retired Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Paul K. Lebidine, president of the RB Veterans Memorial Association. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
Marty Judge, RB Veterans Memorial Association secretary, giving the invocation. He also gave the benediction. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
Lisa Friedrichs was master of ceremonies for the RB Veterans Day event in Webb Park. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
Attendees stood at attention as the Westview High’s NJROTC color guard carried the American flag past them at the RB Veterans Day ceremony. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
Show Caption1 of 11Westview High NJROTC Color Guard members Tristan Champion, Adrian Nuguid, Asher Hannaman and Dezmond Moe. (Elizabeth Marie Himchak)
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