The Community Military Appreciation Committee held a nearly 2-hour ceremony on Monday to show appreciation and remembrance for those who died in service of our country

Paul Valencia
Clark County Today

The flyover was loud.

The artillery even louder.

The sound that made the biggest impact on Monday? It was the silence, in observance of the nation’s fallen.

The Community Military Appreciation Committee partnered with the Fort Vancouver National Historical Site, the Historic Trust, the National Park Service, and the city of Vancouver for Memorial Day Observance on Monday.

U.S. Representative Marie Gluesenkamp-Perez was one of many speakers

“We have inherited a great country, a strong country, a country that was built on deep sacrifice,” Gluesenkamp-Perez said.

Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle, Vancouver Police Chief Troy Price, state representative Sharon Wylie, and retired Navy Captain Marv Serhan were among the many speakers.

“Memorial Day is far more than just the beginning of summer. It is a sacred day of remembrance,” said Ron Powers, chair of the Community Military Appreciation Committee. “It is a day when we pause as a nation to remember the men and women of our armed forces who gave their lives in service to our country and in defense of the freedoms we enjoy every day.”

There was a military flyover, as well as the firing of a cannon and many shots of artillery. There was also a rifle salute, as well as the playing of Taps and Amazing Grace.

Organizers also explained the symbolism associated with the Missing Man Table that was set up in front of the stage.

The Vancouver Community Concert Band played “Going Home” as well as the sons of each branch of service. And there was a dove release in honor of those who died.