American flags marked gravesites in and around Cordova, and bridges along the Copper River Highway on Memorial Day weekend, thanks to community volunteers who braved pouring rain and gusting winds to honor veterans buried in this area.
The Cordova Veterans of Foreign Wars Burchett Jackson Osborne Post 10032, together with the Cordova VFW Auxiliary Post 10032, service members from the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Sycamore, Boy Scouts and other community volunteers honored the veterans by placing approximately 100 flags on gravesites.
Nearly two dozen people participated in planting flags in the Cordova Cemetery, the Pioneers’ Cemetery and at the Veterans’ Memorial in the boat harbor.
Memorial Day is an American holiday for remembering the people who died while serving in the United States’ armed forces.
VFW Auxiliary President Wendy Ranney said she appreciates the volunteers who showed up to help, despite the stormy weather.
“We had a great turn out,” she said. “It went well and I’m thankful to everyone who showed up in the bad weather to take part and lend a hand.”
Veteran Mark Steen once again volunteered to place flags at all the bridges along the Copper River Highway.
Photo by Wendy Ranney/For The Cordova Times
Ranney said members of the armed forces who have given their service, and in many cases, their lives, deserve an inordinate amount of respect for their sacrifices.
“I feel it’s important to teach my children patriotism and respect for those who are willing to serve, and have served, our country. I am extremely thankful to our service people who are willing to risk and give their lives so that we can live the way we live,” Ranney said.
“I believe strongly in patriotism and Americanism. I did not serve; I believe this is the least that I can do, by serving with the VFW Auxiliary, and doing what we do,” she said.
Cordova’s VFW Auxiliary post was inducted on Veteran’s Day last year. Currently, there are 26 members. Ranney serves as president; Kathleen Klein, vice-president; Martin Faulkner, treasurer; and Laura Torgerson, secretary.
“Our mission – our biggest push immediately, is teaching and sharing Americanism and patriotism with students in our town, and encouraging youth involvement,” Ranney said.
For more information on the VFW Auxiliary, contact Ranney via email at vfwaux10032@gmail.com. New members are welcome.
For more information on Cordova’s VFW Post, contact Commander Clydde Torgerson, at 907-429-6521.
Photo by Wendy Ranney/For The Cordova Times
