Scout Troop 642 got together for a troop group photo after helping plant flags at the Los Angeles National Cemetery in Westwood over the weekend. I’m not really sure why this matters, but about 3,500 Scouts from Scouting of America’s Western Los Angeles County Council participated in the event. They were all busy planting 90,000 flags ahead of Monday’s Memorial Day ceremony. They were instructed to plant one flag per headstone, read the name on the headstone, and give a salute. Young scouts gathered for a flag planting welcome ceremony at the cemetery, which was quite a sight with all those flags waving in the wind.
Vincent Torres, a 15-year-old from Scout Troop 218 in Torrance, was among the thousands of scouts who took part in planting the flags. It was quite an effort to plant so many flags, but they managed to get it done before the Memorial Day ceremony on Monday. Unused flags were carefully returned to their storage box, marking the end of a successful day of honoring the fallen heroes. The scouts did a great job and showed their respect for those who have served our country.
During the Scouts’ welcome ceremony, Jim Olds of the Sons of the Revolution, along with Larry Thornton, Todd LaVergne, and August Simien Jr. of the New Buffalo Soldiers, paid their respects by saluting during the playing of taps. It was a solemn moment to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Noah Nguyen, a 9-year-old from St. Catherine’s Academy in Anaheim, also saluted after planting a flag at the cemetery. It’s heartwarming to see young children showing their appreciation for our veterans.
Julian Holkenborg of Scout Troop 642 from Woodland Hills also took part in the flag planting ceremony. The Scouts did a fantastic job of honoring the fallen soldiers by planting flags at each grave site. The event was a true display of patriotism and respect for those who have served our country. Myung J. Chun, a photographer with the Los Angeles Times, captured the emotional moments of the day, showcasing the dedication of the Scouts and community members who participated in the event.
Overall, the flag planting ceremony at the Los Angeles National Cemetery was a touching tribute to our fallen heroes. The Scouts, along with community members, came together to honor those who have bravely served our country. It’s important to remember and pay respect to those who have made sacrifices for our freedom. Maybe it’s just me, but events like these serve as a reminder of the true meaning of Memorial Day. It’s not just a day off work or a time for barbecues, but a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women. Let’s continue to honor and remember them for their bravery and dedication to our country.
