RICHLAND, Wash. – Hundreds gathered at Sunset Gardens to honor veterans, both living and deceased, for their 53rd Memorial Day ceremony.
1,178 flags were flown across the property, each one representing a servicemember who lays at the Gardens. The flags were donated by loved one’s families.
Debbie Piedmont was just one of many attending the Memorial Day service, honoring her late husband who served in the Army in Vietnam. After getting back, the two moved to the Tri Cities, where he passed away last fall.
“He was very generous… (he had a) big heart. Very contagious laugh when he laughed,” said Piedmont, holding the flowers she had brought to his plaque. “This is beautiful here how they’ve put all the flags up.”
The ceremony began at 11 a.m, beginning with the flag raising and pledge of allegiance. Shortly thereafter, crowds looked up into the sky to see two skydivers, one being trailed by a massive US Flag.
After landing, US Navy Reserve Captain Aaron Pickett, a Tri Cities resident for 12 years, was introduced to the Audience. Captain Pickett served in the Navy for 23 years, 10 active and 13 in the reserves.
Captain Pickett emphasized the day’s dual purpose of reflection and celebration.
“There’s always this tension between the sense of sadness, the sense of loss, and really how we rightfully also experience it as a day to celebrate,” said Captain Pickett. “And so, you know, we find in that tension a place to pause and reflect and take a moment.”
Captain Pickett brought his wife and five children to honor a late friend who served in the Navy. This year was the first that his friend’s flag was raised and flying. Captain Pickett says he’s attended other memorial services at the gardens in years prior.
Pat Hollick, Sunset Gardens General Manager, also took the stage to welcome guest speakers and thank the audience. He says these events are the least he can do to give back to the community.
“I mean, there’s a sacrifice that our military members make for us, all of us, every day,” said Hollick. “I think that’s what motivates me… is just giving back to the community here and giving those people the honor and respect they deserve.”
The flags will be taken down after 24 hours and kept away until next year’s Memorial Day ceremony.
