On Monday, May 25th, the City of San Ramon hosted a Memorial Day Program to honor fallen service members. This event took place from 9 to 10 am at San Ramon Memorial Park. It featured music from Olympia Field Brass, a ceremonial presentation honoring fallen service members, and a Commemorative Field of Flags.
“Community members were invited to participate by placing flags in the field as a tribute to those who gave their lives in military service. The program is designed to be both reflective and meaningful for attendees of all ages,” Amalia Kulczycki, a marketing coordinator in the City of San Ramon, commented.
People of all ages and posts attended the event. From veterans sharing their experience, community council members coordinating the event, to Girl Scouts aiding the field of Flags, this event helped bring different groups together.
“The Memorial Day program brings together residents, veterans, families, community organizers, and local youth in a shared moment of remembrance and gratitude,” Kulczycki echoed. “We hope young people understand that Memorial Day is more than the start of summer; it is a day dedicated to remembering the men and women who lost their lives while serving our country. ”
The event was structured with remarks from veterans and families with loved ones serving, with music performed by Olympia Fields Brass between the speeches as Mayor Mark Armstrong transitioned between speakers.
“The biggest challenge in coordinating this event is ensuring the program is respectful and meaningful. We want to make sure to create a remembrance that resonates across generations, pays respect to those who lost their lives, and honors the veterans who are present.” Kulczycki added.
This event emphasized the importance of remembrance throughout the ages as the speakers talk from a place in their hearts.
“They describe the highest form of service. Giving not part of one’s self, but all. That is the meaning of Memorial Day. It is a national promise that the fallen will not be forgotten,” voices Colonel Alan Kalin, Senior Vice Commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 75 remarked to the audience.
The Colonel also addressed his speech to Gold Star families, who are immediate family members of U.S military members who lost their lives in service.
“To the gold star families with us, we offer our deepest respect. No speech can remove your grief. No ceremony can replace the voice you miss, but this community stands with you. Your loved one’s name matters. Their life matters. Their success matters, “ Colonel Kalin commented.
Alongside the Colonel, the Blue Star Moms Chapter 101 was represented by Debbie Carbone, who addressed the worries as a mother of a child in the line of service, as well as Alan Scharlach, the second Vice commander of American Legion Post 246.
“Memorial Day is a solemn pause in the rhythm of our busy lives,” Scharlach voiced. “It is a moment of acute gratitude over routine, reflection over distraction, and unity over division”.
To Kulczycki, it is important to continue holding events like this today as remembrance ceremonies help to preserve history, honor military families and veterans, and remind communities of the importance of sacrifice.
“It creates an opportunity for people from different generations and backgrounds to connect, reflect, and honor those who gave their lives. Events like this help strengthen community bonds while preserving traditions of service and remembrance, “ Kulczycki stated.
