Photos by Samantha Bengtson/Soledad Bee
Soledad High School NJROTC march the flags out after the presentation of colors.
SOLEDAD — The Soledad community and veterans gathered at the Soledad Cemetery on May 28 to honor those who have lost their lives to give the rest of Americans their freedom.
The Memorial Day ceremony began with a welcome by American Legion Post 32 Commander Emile Glenny and a special placing of the “Missing in Action” chair by Frank Serrano.
The designation of an empty chair is a rule for the American Legion and at every meeting a chair is selected to symbolize the thousands of American POWs (Prisoners of War) and MIAs remaining unaccounted for from World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War.
The Presentation of the Colors was conducted by the Soledad High School NJROTC officers and accompanied by the National Anthem sung by Cynthia Landeros and Valerie Parker. Following the salute to the flag, the NJROTC demonstrated two drills, one armed exhibition and a Drill Team exercise.
The guest speaker was retired U.S. Army Ranger Tony Virrueta. Jack Franscioni received a special honor during the ceremony by Brenda Gesinger for his time serving the United States.
