Many veterans and guests attended the Phelan VFW Memorial Day Ceremony to honor those who have fallen in service to our country.
It was a packed parking lot at the Phelan VFW Post 9415. People were glad to get out and attend this ceremony in person and under a beautiful sunny blue sky. The Memorial Day raising of the Flag started at 11:00 am sharp in a fabulous display by Boy Scout Troop 351, and everyone recited the Pledge of Allegiance, loud and proud, as a group.
Bob Carreon played Taps on his bugle, creating a beautiful yet somber feeling, truly bringing to reality what Memorial Day means. A day to remember the men and women in every branch of the United States Military who never came home, they died serving in foreign and domestic wars, as the commander would remind us later in his speech.
Guests were asked inside the hall to hear the Schizochromism choral group from Serrano High School perform the Star-Spangled Banner. They sang it proudly and beautifully.
Next came the invocation by Chaplin Bob Carreon, leading into the ritual of the missing man table. Then the commander made a speech explaining what Memorial Day is.
Next came the installation of the Board. The 2021-22 Board is President Brandi Sharp, Sr Vice President Jan Bazylak, Jr. Vice President Max Nelson, Secretary Alex Brandon, Treasurer Alex Brandon, Trustee 1 Stacy Cohen, Trustee 2 Katie Mower, Trustee 3 Richard Rogers, Chaplain Sean Brandon, Conductress Ann Perez, and Guard Josh Anderson.
At the end of the event, a large spread of lunch items, drinks, and desserts was laid out buffet style for all the guests to enjoy.