Memorial Day 2017: An Overview
Memorial Day, traditionally observed on the last Monday of May, is a poignant occasion to remember and honor the brave souls from the U.S. military who courageously gave their lives in the line of duty. The celebration in San Diego is remarkable, marked by numerous commemorative ceremonies at various historic sites throughout the city.
Additionally, if you enjoyed the Memorial Day Weekend festivities in San Diego in 2017, you may also like to explore the Halloween celebrations that took place in the city during 2016.
Honoring Heroes at San Diego’s Military Sites
San Diego, with its rich military heritage, is home to several sites where one can pay homage to these heroes over the Memorial Day weekend. This article provides insights into three of these locations and the exclusive ceremonies hosted there:
Miramar National Cemetery
- Located around 15 miles north of downtown San Diego, Miramar National Cemetery spreads over 313 acres and is nestled at the northwest corner of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar;
- A special homage was held here on May 28, 2017, on Sunday with a ceremony arranged at the flag pole gathering area.
While it remains closed on other federal holidays, it was open on Memorial Day to welcome all those wishing to honor the brave. Visitors are allowed to lay fresh flowers on the graves, around the Columbarium, or on the memorial walls and monuments, irrespective of the day.
Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery
- A 10-mile drive west of San Diego takes you to the celebrated Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery;
- Even though it usually stays closed on federal holidays, an exception is made for Memorial Day. On May 29, 2017, it was part of a nationwide observance facilitated by the National Cemetery Administration.
The ceremony commenced at 10 a.m. at the Rostrum. The weekend also saw volunteers participating in the honored tradition of putting small American flags on the graves. The cemetery is a host to several monuments and memorials, and visitors are permitted to place fresh-cut flowers at all times.
Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial
- Overlooking the city from its La Jolla location, Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial honored Gold Star families in San Diego at its Memorial Day ceremony in 2017;
- The Gold Star, originated during World War I, marks the sacrifice of a service member killed in combat.
The keynote address was delivered by the Commanding Officer of Naval Base Point Loma, Captain Howard C. Warner III. The day was marked by performances from Marine Band San Diego, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Color Guard, and a “Fly By” performed by San Diego Performance Team Aircraft. This memorial is home to 4,800 granite plaques bearing veteran tributes and is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Why We Remember: The Importance of Memorial Day
Memorial Day in San Diego offers additional observances and opportunities to honor the fallen heroes. These include military parades, concerts, and commemorative walks around the city. It’s also a good time to visit military-themed museums and appreciate the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers in the line of duty.
Memorial Day is not just a federal holiday; it’s a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who laid down their lives for their country. It offers an opportunity for us to appreciate, respect, and remember their selfless services.
Conclusion
Memorial Day Weekend 2017 in San Diego was a heartfelt tribute to the ultimate sacrifices made by the U.S. military servicemen. The city marked the occasion with various ceremonies at the Miramar National Cemetery, Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, and Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial, among other locations. These commemorations, filled with respect and gratitude, truly underlined the importance of remembering our heroes and their priceless contributions.