 | | | Retired U.S. Navy Capt. John Haffner, right, leads the Pledge of Allegiance with former Saint Mary's College president, Brother Mel Andersen, FSC. Photo Vera Kochan | | | | | | Veterans Day is meant to honor the service of all United States military veterans.
In 1926, the U.S. Congress adopted a resolution requesting that President Calvin Coolidge issue annual proclamations calling for an observance of Nov. 11. World War I formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, when the Armistice with Germany went into effect.
It took 12 years for a Congressional Act to officially make Nov. 11 an annual legal holiday. Originally known as Armistice Day, the name was changed to Veterans Day in 1954.
Moraga Commons Park played host in honoring America's veterans in a patriotic 9 a.m. ceremony on Monday, Nov. 12. Moraga Boy Scout Troops 212, 234, 246 and 249, along with Cadette, Senior and Ambassador Girl Scouts from Orinda/Moraga Service Unit 327, were on hand for the Advancement of the Color Guard before the Pledge of Allegiance.
Retired U.S. Navy Capt., SC, John Haffner served as master of ceremonies. "I spent four years in Vietnam. I'm really pleased with today's turnout, and the involvement of the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts," Haffner said. "It's the first time I've ever heard the National Anthem played on a saxophone."
A common thought expressed by guest speakers Mayor Dave Trotter, Supervisor Candace Andersen and State Assembly Member Catharine Baker, was to remember and honor the ultimate sacrifice given by America's fallen military personnel and thank those who made it home, for their service to our country.
|
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA