Military who’ve given their lives honored at Willamette National Cemetery

SEE OUR VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS | While others were planning family gatherings and barbecues, here’s why so many people came to a solemn Memorial Day service in outer East Portland …

In the southern edge of the Pleasant Valley neighborhood, on the border with Clackamas County, hundreds of people gather to mark this year’s Memorial Day with a commemorative service at Willamette National Cemetery.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

For many, Memorial Day is just the end of a three-day weekend. But this year, on May 30, it was a time to reflect on family and friends who died in the service of their country.

For the first time since 2019, due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, the public was invited to the 2022 Memorial Day commemoration ceremony at Willamette National Cemetery – the northern half of which is located in the Pleasant Valley neighborhood, just off SE Mt. Scott Boulevard.

Just before the starting time of 10:00 a.m., the 234th Army Band prepares to play.

The “Joint Color Guard” marches in for the “Advancement and Posting of the Colors.”

During the Advancement and Posting of the Colors, fighter jets – flown by members of the Oregon Air National Guard (OANG) 142nd Fighter Wing – performed a low pass in formation overhead.

Part of the solemn Memorial Day service was a wreath-laying ceremony and a rifle salute by the OANG Military Honors Team.

After the military band plays the “Service Hymn Medley”, father-and-sons trio George, Cliff, and David Dominy, performing together as Praise in 3D, sing “God Bless America”, America the Beautiful” and “Proud to be an American”.

Making the Memorial Day Address is Willamette National Cemetery Director Jared Howard.

Among the remarks provided by the featured speaker, Willamette National Cemetery Director Jared Howard, were these: “We must continue to teach our children and our grandchildren about the brave men and women we’ve gathered to remember today.

“Many brave Oregonians – heroes who answered the call – are resting in this sacred ground. We’re honored to care for them; and we’re humbled by their sacrifice,” he added.

Here is a Video Vignette of this important, regional commemoration ceremony, held in outer East Portland:

As US Army Band member Ruban Monrov played “Taps”, the clouds gave way to rain. VA Chaplain Eric Conklin gave the benediction.

Hearing the PPB Highland Guard Pipe Band play “Amazing Grace” brings tears to the eyes of many in attendance.

Many visit the final resting place of loved ones on Memorial Day at Willamette National Cemetery.

However, after the rain stopped later in the day, as family members and friends of “those who gave all” paid their respects to our fallen heroes at the national cemetery.

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