Memorial Day commemorated in North County
–Sunny weather enhanced the 11th Annual Memorial Day Ceremony at the Faces of Freedom in Atascadero. More than 600 hundred turned out for the event at noon Monday.
Atascadero Mayor Heather Moreno said, “It’s a beautiful event. Every year I look forward to it. You can see how many people in the community come out to remember and honor those who served and made the ultimate sacrifice. It’s always a beautiful event. The community really comes together for it.”
Former fighter Pilot Ed Cobleigh of Paso Robles was the keynote speaker. Cobliegh flew more than 360 missions over Vietnam. Today, he writes books about aviation. He encouraged people to encourage youth to serve in the Armed Forces.
Debbie Roller and Jerry Zalusky presented a memorial wreath in memory of their family members. Flight Officer L. Jerome Zalusky was shot down over the China Sea and reported “Missing in Action” September 17, 1944. Corporal Frank D. Zalusky was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for wounds caused by a landmine explosion during the Battle of the Sieg River in Germany. Private First Class Thomas Soggin was awarded a Bronze Medal for meritorious service in ground operations against hostile forces in Vietnam in 1968.
The Memorial Day event also honored Forrest Johnson and Colonel Bill Hatch, each of whom recently passed away. Both men contributed greatly to building the Faces of Freedom Memorial.
Service was also honored at the annual ceremony at the Paso Robles Cemetery. (Photo from Facebook).
Among the dignitaries to turn out: San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Dan Dow, Supervisor Debbie Arnold and members of the Atascadero City Council, Charles Bourbeau and Heather Newsom, who brought baby Abigail. Also, Atascadero Police Chief Jerrel Haley and Fire Chief Casey Bryson both attended. City Council members Roberta Fonzi and Susan Funk also attended the Memorial Day ceremony at the Faces of Freedom Veterans Memorial. All of the City Council was present, sitting in the front row with their family members.
After the ceremony, Kiwanis provided a barbecue. The large crowd nearly exhausted the tri-tip sandwiches and hot dogs.
There was also an event commemorating Memorial Day at the Paso Robles Cemetery.
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