Memorial Day Commemoration 2023

JACKSON – The Westlake Veterans Club was founded in February 2020, at the start of the pandemic. As a result, the club was forced to hold commemorations on Memorial Day in the parking lot or in front of the clubhouse. This year, the club sponsored a Memorial Day commemoration in the clubhouse. The ballroom was filled with some four hundred plus residents who were there to honor those who gave their lives in service protecting our nation’s freedoms. Thanks to Stephen Bianco, Frank Alleva, and Wayne Doctor for their help in putting this program together.

President of the Westlake Veterans Club, Stephen Bianco welcomed the crowd. He was followed by the Posting of Colors by the Civil Air Patrol, USAF Auxiliary. The Goetz Middle School choir sang “The Star-Spangled Banner,” followed by Frank Alleva who led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Rabbi Isaac Landa, Captain USAF, delivered the invocation.

The first guest speaker was our own Judge Donald Campbell, who is a retired US Army Major General. He paid tribute, using a historic lens, to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the wars fought all over the world. Then there was a tribute to Westlake resident Charles Wilder, USMC, who passed away in December 2022. Frank Alleva presented his widow Helen with the traditional triangular folded American flag. Another guest speaker, Alfred Brenner, Sgt. USMC Ret, told of his terrifying day on the field when an IED exploded killing his beloved canine companion and injuring him. This young man exemplifies the young men and women who carry on the spirit and sacrifice described in the words of Major General Campbell. America is fortunate that the tradition of service is still in the hearts of America’s young people. We saw that love for America in the remarkable teenagers in the Goetz choir. One young lady was crying during “Soldier, I Sing This Song For You.” It was gratifying to see young grandchildren in the audience. It is important that children be aware that Memorial Day is more than barbecue and sales at the mall.

Captain Landa gave the closing benediction which was followed by Dan Dipierro who led “Taps.” After Stephen Bianco’s closing remarks, we were treated to a George S. Cohan medley of patriotic tunes sung by the Goetz Choir. These lively songs provided a transition from the somber and respectful atmosphere of the commemoration to the joyous celebration of the day. As President Harry Truman said, “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.” It was wonderful that our community honored those in service in such a meaningful way. Surely it will become a tradition just as the 9/11 memorial has been for the past 21 years. Thanks to the Westlake Veterans Club for making this event possible.