It’s a somber day to remember those who have helped preserve America’s freedoms, pay homage to their sacrifice and courage, as well as recall the selflessness that embodies military service. Memorial Day is Monday.
In observance of this federal holiday, many people visit cemeteries and memorials. Wreaths, flowers and flags will be displayed. There will be moments of remembrance and silent reflection.
The following services are scheduled on the Big Island.
c Boy Scout Troop 59 is sponsoring a service at 9 a.m. Monday at the Kona Hongwanji Mission on Mamalahoa Highway in Kealakekua. The keynote speaker is Noboru “Don” Seki, a World War II veteran and member of the famed 442nd Regimental Combat Team. Call the temple at 323-2993.
c Seki is also the keynote speaker at the hourlong service at the West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery on Queen Kaahumanu Highway, north of Kailua-Kona. The American Legion Kona Post 20 is organizing this year’s event and anticipating at least 400 attendees. The program begins at 11 a.m. Monday. It will feature welcoming remarks by Republic of Korea navy Capt. Yong Mo Yang, defense attache in Hawaii; an honor roll of veterans; five religious blessings; a 21-gun salute and taps; and entertainment. Numerous veterans groups, high school Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs and community organizations are participating. Lei from Kealakehe and Konawaena elementary schools, as well as West Hawaii Boy and Girl Scout troops, will be placed at burial sites. A potluck will follow; anyone planning to stay for lunch should bring a dish to share. Call David Carlson, post commander, at 325-6491.
c Veterans will be honored at a ceremony at 3 p.m. Monday on the front lawn of the Kilauea Military Camp in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Lt. Cmdr. Shawn Deweese, commanding officer of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter KISKA in Hilo, is the keynote speaker while Tech Sgt. Rita Miller of the 291st Combat Communications, Hilo, is the guest speaker. In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved to the Koa Room inside the lobby. The park entrance fee will be waived from 2 to 3 p.m. for those mentioning they are attending the ceremony. A buffet, featuring kalua pork sandwiches, fried chicken and chili con carne, will be offered from 4 to 7 p.m. Call Kilauea Military Camp Marketing at 967-8371.
c The Marine Corps League Camp Tarawa Detachment 1255 is hosting a ceremony at 10 a.m. Monday at Hawaii Veterans Cemetery No. 1 in Hilo. The program features patriotic music by the Hawaii County Band, a keynote speech by Marine veteran and state Sen. Gil Kahele, and a ceremonial firing detail provided by the 291st Combat Communications Squadron of the Hawaii Air National Guard. Several veterans groups, the Hilo High School JROTC, Civil Air Patrol, Boy Scouts and other community organizations are participating. Retired Marine Corps. Master Sgt. Brian Jordan is the master of ceremonies.
