American Legion Service Officer Walter Garland extends a Memorial Day tribute to U.S. military service members as audience members including Erik Andersen and his 4-year-olds, Mitchell and Ava watch on. Also on hand with his 9-year-old son Bruce was U.S. Army SSG Patrick Gaddie. Lead singer was Betsy Mosley, with Patrick Mooney playing TAPS. Three events were held today: this one at Grand View Cemetery. Memorial Day originated after the American Civil War to honor both the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the war. The holiday was extended by the 20th century to include all American soldiers. Memorial Day is formally known as Decoration Day. This day is not to be confused with Veteran’s Day which celebrates the service of all United States military veterans.
A fourth generation Skagit County native who was moved kicking and screaming from this island community in 1960. I finally reclaimed an Anacortes address in 1980, and I have been in constant celebration of my return since that time. Many of us who call Anacortes home love Fidalgo Island for its natural assets: among them are rugged beaches, pristine lakes, thousands of acres of forestland and some awesome views of the Skagit Valley and surrounding islands. Another element of my love affair with this community is its people, both natives and immigrants. They will “star” in many of my journal entries.
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