Under a perfect sunny sky, the Wrightwood Veterans Memorial Association hosted its 16th annual Memorial Day ceremony at the beautifully manicured Veterans Park on Evergreen Road. The event was a heartfelt tribute to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation.
Allan Miller, president of the Wrightwood Veterans Memorial Association, began the event as the Master of Ceremonies. Pastor Dave Conrad provided an opening prayer, emphasizing the importance of honoring those who have sacrificed their lives for the country and offering solace and strength to their families through divine blessings.
The Fort Irwin Color Guard added a touch of military tradition by posting the Colors and raising the American flag with pride and honor. This was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Miller, with attendees participating with pride and great respect. Local singer Claudia Campbell then delivered a powerful rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner.
Dave De La Cruz, a retired U.S. Army member and WVMA volunteer, read the names of 11 veterans whose Honor Bricks were added to the Memorial Park this year, commemorating their service. These veterans included:
- Samuel H. Bragg, Army Air Force, 1944-1946
- Donald J. Prescott, Army Air Force, 1941-1945
- Carl O. Faulkner, Corporal, U.S. Army
- Captain R. Jim Charkins, U.S. Army Infantry, 1970-1972
- Major Wendy Ranlett, OEF Afghanistan, 2007
- Chief Master Sergeant Jay Tolley, U.S. Air Force, 1956-1986
- Guy B. Irby Sr., U.S. Army, World War I
- Gary Floyd Taylor, U.S. Army, 1948-1997
- Specialist 4C John L. Faulkner, U.S. Army, 1966-1972
- Chief Petty Officer Leroy M. Anderson, U.S. Navy, 1961-1985
- A U.S. Merchant Marine veteran from Pinion Hills
Lora Steinmann and the Wrightwood Chorus performed songs of the service, prompting veterans from each branch to stand and be recognized by the appreciative crowd.
Lieutenant Colonel Rick Ferrell, from the command staff at Fort Irwin National Training Center, was the guest speaker. With a distinguished 21-year career, including four deployments to the Middle East and receiving both the Bronze Star Medal of Valor and the Bronze Star Medal of Service, he spoke about the significance of Memorial Day. Originally known as Decoration Day, the holiday honors fallen soldiers with floral tributes, wreaths, and flags. Ferrell expressed concern about the decreasing understanding of Memorial Day among Americans, urging attendees to educate the younger generation “about the importance of serving and defending the unique constitutional republic of the United States.”
Catherine Schinhofen of the WVMA explained the POW/MIA table, set up to honor prisoners of war and those missing in action. The table, a tradition introduced by the late Harlan Lassiter, holds deep symbolic meaning: a round table for everlasting concern, a white tablecloth for pure motives, a red rose for sacrifice, a yellow ribbon for hope, a slice of lemon for bitter fate, salt for tears, a lighted candle for guidance, an inverted glass for absence, an empty chair for the missing, a Holy Bible for faith, and service hats representing each military branch.
Tom Pinard, a retired USN Captain, shared Wrightwood’s historical connection to the military. He noted that during World War II, the village’s cabins housed military personnel training in Victorville. He also recounted the inception of the Veterans Memorial project, highlighting its significance in honoring service members annually.
The ceremony concluded with the Fort Irwin Color Guard raising the American flag, followed by Girl Scout Troops 1213 and 2249 presenting a wreath. Chris Johnson, a student at Serrano High School, performed a moving rendition of”Taps,” echoing across the park. The choir and audience united in singing “America the Beautiful,” and Pastor Conrad offered a benediction for those currently serving in the armed forces, praying for their protection.
To close the event, Rick Ferrell conducted a public ceremony honoring soldiers from Fort Irwin who were advancing in rank, acknowledging their dedication and service. This was the first time a promotional ceremony was held at the Wrightwood Veteran’s Memorial where the promotion was given to Robert Deaver.
The Memorial Day event in Wrightwood remains a testament to the community’s deep respect and gratitude for its veterans, ensuring that their sacrifices are remembered and honored.
