NSE Celebrates Memorial Day

Photo By Petty Officer 1st Class Joseph Montemarano | 170525-N-WX604-177 EVERETT, Wash. (May 25, 2017) Master-at-Arms Seaman Steven Orick and Religious Program Specialist 2nd Class Michael Archer, both assigned to Naval Station Everett (NSE) present a wreath during a Memorial Day ceremony at NSE's Jackson Plaza. The ceremony commemorates service members who have given their lives while serving in the U.S. armed forces. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joseph Montemarano/Released)  

EVERETT, WA, UNITED STATES

05.25.2017

Story by Petty Officer 3rd Class Joseph Montemarano 

Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Det. Northwest

EVERETT, Wash. – Sailors, civilians and family members gathered together to observe a Memorial Day ceremony at Jackson Plaza on Naval Station Everett (NSE), May 25.

The ceremony is held each year to remember and honor service members who have died while serving in the U.S. armed forces.

“Without the sacrifices of the service members who had gone before us, we wouldn’t be a free country with all the rights that accompany that,” said Capt. Mark A. Lakamp, NSE commanding officer. “The wars we’ve fought over history to maintain that freedom, none of that would have happened without the sacrifices of our predecessors made for us.”

The ceremony began with a traditional observance of colors. The flag is quickly raised to the top of the staff, before gently being lowered until it reaches the half-mast position, where it remains until noon.

The event also commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Midway, the U.S. Navy victory that marked the turn of World War II in the Pacific Ocean. The victory at Midway allowed the U.S. to focus its efforts and resources in the European theater, ultimately helping to win the war.

“We have the next generation of Sailors, Soldiers, Airman, Marines, Coast Guardsman, civilians and family members who can now clearly see before them, just how a naval legacy evolves from being a pivotal moment in history,” said Fire Controlman 1st Class Nicolas Sinclair, assigned to Naval Station Everett. “Becoming a staple in the Navy’s calendar, where history is marked and naval heritage is reaffirmed from generation to generation.”

• Date Taken: 05.25.2017
• Date Posted: 05.25.2017 19:48
• Story ID: 235373
• Location: EVERETT, WA, US