Honoring Our Fallen Veterans on Memorial Day

The Annual Memorial Day Observance on May 30 brought islanders together in gratitude of our veterans who, since the birth of our nation, have fallen in battle defending our liberty. The observance was sponsored by local American Legion Post 404 and hosted by the Marco Island Lutheran Church for the second year in a row.

Memorial Day is a federal holiday to honor the men and women of the armed forces who have died while serving in the United States Military. It is observed on the last Monday of May.

Residents and guests were welcomed by Post Commander Lee Rubenstein on behalf of the Post’s membership. The solemn event honored the sacrifices made by the men and women in uniform since the founding of the Republic.

Presentations and speeches were made by personnel and dignitaries in attendance, but none were more moving than the video presentation highlighting the American cemeteries overseas in foreign lands, introduced by Post 404 Chaplin William Duncan.

There are 10 overseas military cemeteries that serve as resting places for almost 130,000 American war dead. The cemeteries are found in 10 foreign countries, including Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, Mexico, the Netherlands, Panama, the Philippines, Tunisia, and the United Kingdom. These sacred grounds serve as the final burial home for approximately 130,00 American military personnel.

Marco Island resident, Rear Admiral Kenneth Deutsch, U.S. Navy (retired) presented the keynote speech, in which he spoke of the importance of staying vigilant during turbulent times.

Marco Post 404 received its charter from the American Legion in 2014 and welcomes all veterans into membership. Potential members are encouraged to attend a monthly meeting to inquire about membership. The Post meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 11 AM at the Marco Island Lutheran Church located at 525 North Collier Boulevard.