PHOENIX - Active and reserve members from Navy Operational Support Center Phoenix unfolded and displayed a historic flag from the USS Arizona Memorial at the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community on Dec. 6 in remembrance of the 72nd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Veterans Representative E. Pacer Reina explains the historic significance of the flag.
“We (SRPMIC) are the custodian of this historic flag which had proudly flown above the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor,” said Reina. Every year we display it to the community in honor of the anniversary of Dec. 7. This event leads to its installment in a case at the Arizona State Capitol Relic Room.”
The Indian community in Arizona has a long history of military service and played an important role in the formation of the state’s National Guard.
“This memorial reminds of us our long military heritage,” said Reina, “We take a lot of pride in hosting this flag which helps us tell our stories.”
The memorial included many veterans, a motorcycle escort and a rendition of “God Bless America” sung in the local Native American language.
Equipment Operator 2nd Class John Baca was part of the detail of 21 sailors from NOSC Phoenix and led the cadence commands.
“We volunteered for this ceremony because this is important,” said Baca. “It’s an example of the commitment to service. This ceremony is showing people a remembrance of what our veterans did and why we are here today.”