Chelan Valley citizens reflect on the service of the armed forces at Memorial Day events

Manson American Legion Memorial Day ceremony at American Legion Park, May 26.

The annual Chelan Memorial Day Parade through historic downtown Chelan took place Monday night. The procession by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6853 honored members of the armed forces.

"Those that didn't come back," reflected retired U.S. Navy vet Carlie Keeton. "I don't think there's anybody here that hasn't lost friends in wartime. You train hard so you don't bleed so hard."

"There's moms out there every Thanksgiving just hoping there was maybe an accident or there was a mistake, and maybe Johnny will finally walk through that door," noted Iraq and Afghanistan Marine veteran Butch Simms.

"It's very unfortunate, a lot of people paid the ultimate sacrifice," said Army veteran Darren Perry prior to Monday's parade. " They didn't plan for that but they were willing to put their life on the line for this wonderful country."

The Manson American Legion held its annual Memorial Day Celebration at the American Legion Park Monday morning.

A keynote reflection was offered by Chelan City Administrator Wade Farris, a U.S. Air Force veteran.

"The loss of people that you know, your friends, your loved ones, the people you served with, the pain you endure because of it" said Farris. "The Gold Star families and the effect it has on them over their whole life."

"Remember why you have the privilege, enjoyment in the world today in this country, and that's for the men and women who served honorably and shed their blood, lost their lives, so we could do this, we could be free," Farris added.