A Memorial to Suit the Day

Angelo Salvatore, Army and Marine Veteran

There was a lot going on in the Phoenix Valley for Memorial Day weekend. As fortune would have it, we chose the event here in Gilbert and we’re so glad that we did.

As an Army Vet myself, I was especially thankful for the opportunity to attend the ceremony with my 91 year-old Dad (92 next week!) who is a Veteran of both the Army and the Marines.

I’m sure I don’t need to tell you the meaning of Memorial Day- events are customarily rather mournful and rightfully so. But the character of this particular commemoration struck me as exceptional in that it was, at the same time solemn and up-lifting. I believe the majority of folks attending shared the same impression of gratitude and profound respect that we felt.

Ceremony Honoring POW and MIA

The event was opened by the Gilbert Police leading a contingent of the Legion Riders, an impressive demonstration of recognition. Gilbert mayor Bridget Peterson recounted a touching experience visiting the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii.

The meaning of each element of the POW MIA table was explained in heart-wrenching detail.

But without a doubt the most moving moment occurred when guest speaker Sharri Detharidge shared the difficulty of loosing her husband Jose Regalado in Iraq in 2008, and her enduring commitment to the military community. Sharri is dedicated to ensuring that others better understand the challenges faced by Veteran’s families, and that those who gave their lives for our country are never forgotten

We truly appreciate the thoughtful presentation organized by the town of Gilbert and HD South Gilbert Museum. It has stuck with us and I believe it will for some time to come.

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