Santa Monica Honors Fallen Heroes at Woodlawn Cemetery Memorial Day Ceremony

Santa Monica, CA- On Monday, May 27, 2024, Woodlawn Cemetery hosted a solemn Memorial Day observance. The program commenced with a warm welcome from Santa Monica Elks Trustee Kevin Steck, followed by the Presentation of Colors by Team 3 of the California State Army Honor Guard, accompanied by Jim Allen on bagpipes.
Santa Monica Elks Exalted Ruler Gloria Steck led the attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance, and Valentina Manco, a senior from Santa Monica High School, performed the National Anthem. The invocation was given by Santa Monica Elks Chaplain Alan White.
Santa Monica Elks Trustee Kevin Steck read General Logan's Order, a tradition honoring the origins of Memorial Day. Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock delivered a welcome address, introducing distinguished guests including Vice Mayor Lana Negrete and Councilmember Christine Parra.
The program continued with the Presentation of Wreaths by Esteemed Leading Knight Michelle Vanlerberghe. The Oceanaire Choir performed "Irish Blessing," adding a musical tribute to the ceremony. Guest speaker Sergeant Douglas Woodhams delivered poignant Memorial Day remarks, followed by the Oceanaire Choir’s rendition of "Grand Old Flag."
At high noon, the Santa Monica Police Department Explorers and Jim Allen on bagpipes participated in the Raising of the Flag ceremony. The event concluded with the Oceanaire Choir singing "God Bless America," a performance of "Taps" by Palisades High School junior James Ball, and closing remarks by Santa Monica Elks Trustee Kevin Steck.
The Memorial Day ceremony at Woodlawn Cemetery was a moving tribute to the fallen heroes who have served and sacrificed for the United States, fostering a sense of unity and gratitude among the attendees.
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Fabian Lewkowicz is a Santa Monica-based photojournalist and press photographer, and the creator of the photo blog, Santa Monica Close Up. With years of experience as a staff photographer for several media outlets including the Santa Monica Daily Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica Observer, and the Santa Monica Corsair, Fabian has captured some of the most iconic moments of Santa Monica.
Fabian's photographs have been displayed in a variety of settings, including museums, art galleries, hospitals, department stores, banks, fire stations, police stations, commercial buildings, amusement parks, offices, and homes. His photography captures the essence of Santa Monica, from its beautiful landscapes and stunning sunsets to its unique culture and diverse community.
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[@laurapallas]

The Santa Monica Oceanaires were proud to be a part of this special event!

[@jimo3393]

🙏🇺🇸

[@bguerra4]

Where's Daisy.

[@19EliStrange84]

In the crowd can’t you see her 😂😂😂😂

[@robertwood4836]

Thank you Colonel Woodhams, for sharing your memories of our Fallen Brothers...
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Never Above You, Never Below You, Always Beside You
Semper Fidelis Sir