Rancho Cordova Pays Tribute to Fallen
Jun 02, 2022 12:00AM ● By Cordova Community Council News Release
Korean War recognition of heroes on Memorial Day 2022. From the left: Matt Ceccato, District Director for Congressman Ami Bera, M.D.; Former RC Mayor and Councilmember Robert J. McGarvey; Alvin Lynch, Korean War veteran; Marc Robles, son of late Korean War veteran Arturo Robles) and members of the Korean Consulate present for the special recognition: Kwangyong Chung, Deputy Consul General; Hongsun Yoon, Consul; and Kyunghee Lim, Researcher. Photo by Rick Sloan
RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - Rancho Cordovans paid tribute to American men and women who have given their lives in defense of the country during a moving Memorial Day Observance held at the Cordova High School Performing Arts Center on Monday.
A group of 18 veterans were honored with the dedication of memorial bricks, which will be installed at the Veterans Memorial Plaza, located in front of the medical center – an annual tradition. They will join more than 2,000 which have now been placed at the plaza.
Returning after a two-year pandemic break and hosted for the 14th year by 96-year-old World War II veteran Robert Burns, Lt. Col., US Army (Ret.), the gathering was an emotional mix of music, tributes and special recognition of Korean War veterans by dignitaries from the Korean Consulate.
“We are so fortunate to be living in the United States of America, the most wonderful country on earth,” said Burns. “We honor those who have protected our freedoms, giving generously to our nation. Some gave all. And remembering them is what Memorial Day is all about.”
Burns was also honored for his outstanding national service in the U.S. Army, which included tours of duty in World War II, Korea and Vietnam.
Kelly Hughes, Sgt., U.S. Army (Ret.), a retired medic from Dustoff Unit 168, shared four compelling stories of valor he witnessed during his own distinguished military career. His comments drew a standing ovation.
The Rancho Cordova River City Concert Band provided a musical backdrop to the event, which included a world live premiere of “Proudly They Served,” an original piece of music written for band by Jerry Brubaker, who was commissioned to write the piece. It was written and performed with the help of a Community Enhancement and Investment Fund arts grant from the City of Rancho Cordova.
As is the custom on Memorial Day, veteran organizations placed memorial wreaths, prayers were shared for fallen warriors, and patriotism was celebrated.
The Memorial Day Observance was produced by the Cordova Community Council with the help of a community-based volunteer committee, Boy Scout Troop 262, Cordova High School Jr. ROTC cadets and assistance from the Veterans Administration Northern California Health Care System.
