Memorial Day celebration honors fallen and enlisted service members

Hundreds of community members including veterans and military families joined together for the annual Memorial Day ceremony on May 27 at the Veterans Memorial Building in Hollister.

While Memorial Day became a federal holiday in 1971 meant to remember those who lost their lives while serving in the military, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9242 and American Legion Post 69 took the opportunity to also recognize community members who are enlisted or have served in the past.

The VFW 9242 Honor Guard presented banners to returning service members and hung new banners in honor of those currently enlisted. Veterans Memorial Building Manager Ellen Herrera said the banner presentation has been part of the Memorial Day ceremony for the last five years.

For Aida Dutra, mother of sailor Nathen Dutra who is stationed in Japan, it was an emotional ceremony that demonstrated the community’s support for all service members and families.

“Beyond words, very supportive,” she said while holding back tears.

Dutra said events like the local Memorial Day remembrance allow families and the community to come together.

After the banner presentation, San Benito County Supervisor Jim Gillio and State Assemblyman Robert Rivas spoke to the crowd gathered outside the building.

“Today we remember the men and women who died for us,” Rivas said. “Who sacrificed absolutely everything for our freedom. The families and people who are here this morning to remember their loved ones, thank you. Our community is and always will be here for you.”

Gillio told the crowd that the sacrifices made by fallen heroes will never been forgotten and their memories will never fade.

After the hour-long ceremony, the VFW and the American Legion hosted a $10 lunch that included a tri-tip sandwich, beans and chips. Proceeds went to the two veteran-focused organizations.

VFW Commander George Nava said that after running out of food last year, this year’s event filled about 200 plates. He added there was little food left after the event.