OCEANFRONT — Hundreds of people gathered on Monday, May 30, at Veterans Memorial Park to remember the people who have given their lives in service to our country.
The Memorial Day gathering brought people together at the Oceanfront for a regional remembrance ceremony after limits on such gatherings during the novel coronavirus pandemic. It included a program of remarks and patriotic music and placement of wreaths at the Tidewater Veterans Memorial.
Mayor Bobby Dyer, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, told those assembled for the ceremony he was honored to welcome people to the event.
“We come together to honor the men and women whose noble efforts and sacrifices for their country mean so much to this nation,” Dyer said, “a nation that is built upon the ideals of duty, sacrifice and honor to make us a truly great nation.”
Dyer added, “Our military veterans and our armed forces are so much a part of who we are, not just as a nation but especially because of who we are in Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads. So it takes a special meaning when we get together and honor those who gave their lives while doing their duty for honor and for country.”
“By your presence today, I see a shared unity of purpose across a wonderfully diverse group of Americans,” said Stevens, who serves as commander, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Virginia.
“Recognize that each one of you today is united in a common bond of loyalty to celebrate America’s heroes who are no longer with us, having made the ultimate sacrifice to our country,” he added.
Stevens recognized those who have sacrificed and their loved ones, and, early in his remarks, he also noted those people who are serving their country today, including the members of the armed forces who served in v arious roles during the Memorial Day gathering.
“Thanks to the future of America, right here,” he said.
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