Memorial Day ceremony remembers those who’ve served in Cathedral City

On Memorial Day Monday, life slows down a bit. While many notably celebrate the holiday with barbeques and such, Congressman Raul Ruiz urges us all to remember…

“Our life and our freedom and what we enjoy is a result of the sacrifice they made throughout the many years in the life of our country,” Congressman Raul Ruiz said.

It’s this message that wove through the 21st Annual Memorial Day Ceremony at Desert Memorial Park in Cathedral City.

“This is a tribute to all military regardless of what service you’ve been in, to honor our veterans and servicemen for sacrificing their life for the freedom of this country,” Korean War veteran John Lea said.

“Looking up to all the veterans, looking at how they served, it’s a big role model,” Boy Scout Ethan Philbrook said.

Congressman Raul Ruiz spoke to the crowd of veterans and community members there to honor those who have lost their lives for our country. Cindy Klabbers honors her father who fought in the Vietnam War.

“It’s sad and I get very teary eyed because I’m a true American and I believe all our soldiers made a great sacrifice for our freedom. It makes me very proud to be a part of the military family,” Klabbers said.

Ethan Philbrook holds his dad on a pedestal, one he hopes to reach someday as well.

“I want to be in the marines because my dad was in the army and on my dad’s side we have a long military experience,” Philbrook said.

Flags waving throughout the ceremony represented a fallen service man or woman, and were donated by a family or friend.

It’s a day dedicated to those men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of their country.