Veterans Day Seattle 2017

This morning in Seattle Evergreen Washelli hosted its fabulous annual tribute to veterans. It is quite a sight to see flags all over the cemetery, color guards, and veterans of all wars.

When they asked any World War II veterans to stand or wave to be recognized, two stood up. Perhaps there were more, but each year there are fewer.

Canada geese were on patrol.

The color guard begins the walk up the hill. As is tradition, local Cub Scouts were on hand to pass out programs, and they’re usually who hand out flags as well.

Proud of our veterans! Note the female veteran to the left. The keynote speaker was also a woman.

It’s great to see parents bring their children to such events. Kids need to know our history and learn that freedom isn’t free.

Thanks in part to one of our longest stretches of sunny weather ever, there were still flowers in the grass.

At 7:00 this morning volunteers, including children, placed flags on all the veterans’ graves. A sea of red, white, and blue flows from the bell tower.

Veterans of all ages participate.

The rifle salute. Some people bring their dogs to this event, and this is one good reason not to.

Taps, always a sobering moment.

The colors are retired.

Another great event by Evergreen Washelli concludes. In a city of over 700,000, it’s crazy that only a few hundred people attend this service if that. It’s well worth coming out for, and a great way to honor our men and women in uniform.

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The soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war. -Douglas MacArthur

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