Memorial Day 2021 - Columbia River Gorge
The Meaning of Memorial Day
First established as Decoration Day after the Civil War, the holiday was set aside for families and friends to visit and decorate the graves of troops lost in the conflict.
As time went on, the observance instead became known as "Memorial Day," until 1971, when Congress declared it an official holiday set to fall annually on the last Monday in May
Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day
Service members, veterans, and their families know there is a big difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. While Veterans Day, Nov. 11, is a day set aside to celebrate all veterans, Memorial Day is a somber holiday dedicated to honor military fallen, with a special focus on those killed during military service or through enemy contact.
Both holidays often include parades, ceremonies and celebrations. But although Memorial Day also traditionally marks the beginning of summer with picnics and parties, many in the military community believe that at least a portion of it should be spent to mourn and honor the fallen.
To honor fallen heroes locally the following events are open to the public:
The Dalles – Monday May 31st, 12 p.m. Sorosis Park
Prayer and a moment of silence. The community is invited to add wreaths and flowers in remembrance.
Hood River – Monday May 31st, 11 a.m. Idlewild Cemetery
Posting of colors, anthem, and an honoring of the upcoming 100th anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Public is welcome.
White Salmon – Monday May 31st, 12:45 p.m. White Salmon Cemetery
American Legion Post 87 and Carson Legion Post 137 sponsoring the event to induct local deceased veterans into the “Walk of Honor,” installing a personalized bronze plaque permanently on the walk. Public is welcome.
A Local Fallen Hero
Remembering Marc A. Lee, a Hood River native. He was a member of SEAL team 3 and the first SEAL to lose his life during Operation Iraqi Freedom on August 2, 2006 in Ramadi. Lee was awarded the Silver Star (Posthumously) for his brave actions in the line of fire. On that day he saved the lives of many of his teammates. Marc was 28 years old.
An excerpt from his citation:
“……To protect the lives of his teammates, he fearlessly exposed himself to direct enemy fire by engaging the enemy with his machine gun and was mortally wounded in the engagement.”
This August marks 15 years since Marc Lee paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country. When you have the time, visit the gym at the Elks Club dedicated in his honor to learn more about this local hero.
