Wall of Freedom Gathers to Honor the Fallen

May 26th, the Foundation of Grand Terrace and Veterans Wall of Freedom committee held a Memorial Day Ceremony at Pico Park to observe and honor veterans. Residents gathered at the future Veterans Wall of Freedom site for the event. The crowd was welcomed by Darcy McNaboe, President of the Foundation of Grand Terrace. McNaboe was accompanied by Ceremony Chairman, Bob Lavin, who commented that Veterans and Memorial Day is a time for us to honor all veterans. Lavin, who served in the US Army as a Sergeant for two years was stationed in Southeast Asia and has lived in Grand Terrace for 37 years. Lavin was a driving force in the planning and preparation of the May 26th ceremony. He shares, "Our crowds continue to expand and as the community, we strive to make the event bigger every time. We look forward to its continuing growth." After the welcome, Colton High School JROTC cadets performed the posting of colors, followed by an invocation by Pastor Andy McRae. The Pledge of Allegiance was then led by Maria Fraser who then handed the stage to American Legion Post 155 member, Joe Luna, for the National Anthem. Guest speakers included Mayor Walt Stanckiewitz, Blue Star Mother, Valerie Holmes, Robert Carrillo, relative of Medal of Honor recipient Col. Joseph C. Rodriguez, and State Assemblymember Cheryl Brown. Brown saluted veterans from all eras, past and present for their compassion and loyalty to our country. The Colton High School JROTC cadets returned with the presentation on the wreath which led to the POW/MIA Ceremony and TAPS.