EAGLE BEACH — On Memorial Day morning in 2002 four US armed forces veterans, their friends and families gathered on Eagle Beach at Costa Linda Beach Resort. The purpose of the gathering was to honor all those who had paid the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country. The simple ceremony has since become an annual event and has welcomed veterans from all nations to take part.
Last year Maureen Nadal who is one of the initiative takers of the event explains why this gathering is important. “All these people gave their lives and service to their country. My late husband did not want this to stop so continuing this is a must-do for me.”
The organization is pleased to say that since that first ceremony participation has indeed increased significantly. From the beginning they have attempted to keep the ceremony simple, solemn, and apolitical. They have kept it solemn for obvious reasons, simple because of the ages of some of the vets who might find it difficult to stand in the sun too long, and apolitical because they were/are all visitors in Aruba and understand that the raising of the American flag or the singing or playing of the Stars Spangled banner might offend some island residents. They also soon realized that they had attracted veterans from other nations – Holland, Aruba, and South Africa to mention a few. So in fairness to all, they thought that large national banners and anthems would be inappropriate. However, they encourage participants to wear any uniforms or national symbols they wish to wear.
Veterans will gather on the beach at 10:00 AM May 27, 2019 to form The Detail. The organization asks that viewers leave the area of the beach clear between The Detail and the surf. There will be a call to attention followed by a reading of the poem We Stand by the Sea (anonymous) as a memorial wreath of flowers will be placed in the surf. There will then be a reading of a verse from The Fallen by R.L. Binyon followed by the playing of Taps and the presentation of arms by the Detail. The Detail will then be dismissed. All those wishing to join on Memorial Day May 27, 2019 are welcomed. They will convene on the beach at 10:00 AM. There will be coffee, juice and donuts provided by the Costa Linda Beach Resort.q
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