Allen Brandstater, a longtime resident of Montrose, salutes the flames that swallowed pieces of American flags that were retired during the flag retirement ceremony.
By Robin GOLDSWORTHY
The Crescenta Valley community assembled at Two Strike Park in La Crescenta on Friday for the annual Veterans Day ceremony. After the presentation of colors and the national anthem performed by Malia Chock, four local women veterans – Nancy Sumner (Air Force), Megan Rodriguez (Air Force), Ellen Romaine (Army) and Claudia DeLeon (Marines) – were recognized for their service. Each received a military Challenge Coin and was presented with various certificates of appreciation.
“The certificates recognize them and thank them for service to our nation,” said Lynn McGinnis who is with American Legion Post 288 in La Crescenta that hosted the Veterans Day event with VFW Post 1614.
“These women answered the call and came home humble heroines,” said Lt. Col. Dave Worley in his address. Worley is an Air Force veteran who works with the JrROTC at Crescenta Valley High School.
“This was a [wonderful way] to honor our veterans’ service,” DeLeon said. “I’m surprised by the number of people who came.”
California Congressman Adam Schiff echoed the praise for all veterans and immediately addressed the current issue that is facing many – that of being asked to repay the government money that it had issued. Schiff said he is urging the passage of legislation that waives the debts and provides financial relief to soldiers who have already repaid some or all of what the Pentagon said is owed.
Veteran Andy Gero, who submits a monthly veterans column to Crescenta Valley Weekly, was pleased that the congressman spoke on the issue.
“I think it needed to be addressed,” Gero said. “If it isn’t addressed properly we’re remiss.”
Schiff also spoke on the discourse felt throughout the nation following the Presidential election.
“We have to find a way to come together,” he said. “We owe it to [the veterans] to bind up the nation’s wounds [so we can] heal.”
The Veterans Day event included a flag retirement ceremony overseen by Therese Newgard who is with Boy Scout Troop 288 and Venture Crew 288. She explained that there are no formal rules for a flag retirement ceremony but it should be ‘dignified.’
A barbecue-like device held the fire in which ceremony guests dropped pieces of tattered and worn American flags. A few of the veterans saluted the flames before dropping in their piece of cloth.
Before dismissing everyone, the Armed Forces medley was played. When each branch of the military was sung, the members who served in that branch stood to be recognized by the crowd.
“This was a great way of the community getting together,” said Jerry Burnham who served from 1969-72. “It lets you know that people care about veterans and about our country.”
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