East Coachella Valley celebrates Memorial Day
U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Paul Stryker has deep roots that always brought him back to the Coachella Valley.
“My parents lived in Indio, I got off active duty and moved to Indio to take care of my mom. I’ve been in the valley ever since,” he said.
This is where his wife is. Through his deployments, he always tried to make it back here to her.
“It was difficult. She is very independent, she can take care of herself, but at the same time the separation was very difficult. Anytime you leave you worry if things are going to be ok at home,” he said.
Colonel Stryker has always been invested in teaching the valley’s youth.
“I taught at Indio High School for 16 years, been California Cadet Corp. in Indio for 15 years,” Colonel Stryker said.
He always teaches two things specifically.
“Citizenship and leadership. Citizenship to learn connection to the community someone paid the ultimate price for their freedom,” he said.
On this Memorial Day, veterans and community members gathered at the Coachella Valley Cemetary to honor those who died for all of us – day and a message Colonel Stryker hopes resonates with the Indio High School Cadets.
“You might think about a military career down the road. Some of you might even go to college and become officers,” he added
I want them to not forget those who paid for their freedom. Remember there is a price to pay, things we take for granted we don’t mean to take them for granted but we should take a moment everyday to be thankful.
