Memorial Day Events Honor Those Who Died Serving This Country
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - Thousands of people across South Florida paused Monday to remember those who had given their life in service of this country.
In Davie, a Memorial Day parade rolled down Orange Drive and came to an end at the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds where a special ceremony was held. This year's service commemorated the 50th anniversary of America's involvement in the Vietnam War.
"I just want him to grow up to be respectful and know that there's people out there giving everything so that he can grow up in a free country," said parent Matthew Kay while at the Davie event Monday.
For Vets like Jim Daniel who severed in Korea, it's also a reminder that we need to do more for those who served and came back.
"We get guys in the VA (Veteran's Affairs) waiting for hours, for months for an appointment and sitting on a bench for 4 hours to see a doctor. Doctors are so busy, here take a pill, see you later," said Daniel.
During the ceremony, four vets were awarded, or knighted, the The Order of Saint George Medal. The medal recognizes the top tier tankers and cavalrymen who have served, or who are currently serving in company/troop, and in leadership and command positions.
Staff Sergeant Morton Kalin is 95-years old. He was being honored for his service in the South Pacific in World War 2. He hopes no one forgets the sacrifices his fellow soldiers made.
"I think they don't always realize they sacrificed and offered their life to make the United States safe," said Kalin.
Another veteran honored was Lt. Colonel Daniel Loewenthal, who earned a Silver Star and Purple Heart in World War II. He passed away in 1989. His daughter accepted the award on his behalf.
"I don't think there's enough we can do for people who serve our country whether they're currently serving, have served or gave it all to serve," said his daughter Leslie Loewenthal. "Just to be grateful that we're safe because of the people who go out there and fight on our behalf."
After the service, flags were placed on veteran's grave markers.
The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce's Military Affairs Committee honored veterans with a Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony at the Woodlawn Park Cemetery in Coral Gables. The service included a color guard parade, a presentation by Brigadier General Kevin M. Iiams, remarks by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio and a wreath-laying ceremony.
Elsewhere in Miami-Dade, memorial services were held at Triangle Park in Hialeah and at Miami Beach Police Headquarters.
In Doral, a ceremony was held at Veterans Park and featured Southern Command's Deputy Commander, Lieutenant General Joseph DiSalvo, who was a Brigade Combat Team Commander in Falluja, Iraq, and Marine Corps veteran. Also, there was an unveiling of the Vietnam Battle Cross, the only exclusive memorial to Vietnam veterans' in Miami-Dade County.
