November 11th, 2010
Veterans Day 2010
Veterans Day 2010 in Anacortes, Washington drew more than 220 people to a public event at the Port of Anacortes Transit Shed Event Center. The event, which started at Causland Memorial Park with the laying of a wreath, featured speakers, patriotic music and the laying of a second wreath in honor of those who have served in the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. Speaker Shelby Junkman, a sergeant in the U.S. Army, delivered an emotional speech including a poem by a Marine friend who was killed in action. Her message was received by a standing ovation. A color guard from NAS Whidbey Island was made up of AD2 Elder, AT2 Arebalo, AT3 Maher and AT3 Pride. Music was provided by the Anacortes High School Ensemble Band, with solos by Kaitlynn Wollam. Speaker Eric Johnson, a retired Air Force officer, played the bagpipes during a procession of wreath to the Guemes Channel. The wreath was delivered by veterans Stan Jewell and Ken Brown. The audience included several dozen veterans and two or three active service personnel. Emcee was Port Executive Bob Hyde, event organizer. Hyde is a retired commander in the U.S. Navy. Sponsors included Donatello’s Flowers; Cap Sante Marine; VFW; American Legion; the Port; American Red Cross; Fidalgo Artillery Company; Wrestlers for Life; two Boy Scout troops; NAS Whibey Island and Bill Wooding, owner of a Humvee and Jeep on display.