Hundreds observe Memorial Day in Atascadero

June 1, 2021

Photo by Richard Bastian

Hundreds gathered at the Faces of Freedom Memorial in Atascadero on Memorial Day to honor soldiers who died while fighting for the United States.

Photo by Richard Bastian

The memorial at the Atascadero Lake Park, created in 2008, was built to honor all of our country’s military members. Portions of the memorial honor those who fought in World War I, World War II, The Korean War and the Vietnam War.

Photo by Richard Bastian

Dozens of veterans sat shoulder to shoulder to honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Photo by Richard Bastian

Photo by Richard Bastian

Photo by Richard Bastian

 


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I had arrived early to cover this event, knowing this monument and the occasion would be drawing countless in paying respect for what this Veterans Face of Freedom meant, thankful I did for as I was leaving there was not a parking space to be found, then turning onto the the highway driving off, both sides were lined with care for a distance which meant those arriving were in for a long walk.

A lady by the name of Carrol was opening the sheaf when volunteers began arriving, then more after that, working to set up for the event.

Girl & Boy Scouts placing flags along the walkway, pictured are Jesse Smith & Josef Parkhurst.

Then it began as vets, friends & families came pouring in, the vets exchanging emotional embrace, some fighting back the emotions as seen through blurry eyes and tears,.

No! This was not a celebration, a most solemn occasion to be sure, and which that each left with their silent thoughts, and perhaps questions of why and when will mankind learn that’s it’s to our creator in who’s hands, our trust must be placed that we should be depending on, yes to listen,, paying more attention that we may learn the answers to our prayers.

Until that day when the war to end all wars comes by the direction of our Heavenly Father all will be facing our own personal decisions in which direction we choose to be heading, perhaps now as we see conditions worsening would be best we pay more than the usual attention to what our God is trying to teach us.

May He keep and bless each and all with courage and strength until His work here is finished.


Correction when saying, opening the sheaf should read, opening the shed where supplies were kept


The Faces of Freedom is a beautiful place. It’s somber, but very peaceful and the same time. I thank all of you that served this nation you deserve to be honored daily. I also thank all of those who worked to make this Memorial for our armed forces and presented to the city of Atascadero. What a blessing it has been. May we never forget them and the freedoms we have that they protected and preserved.


God Bless America…..freedom is not free…freedom does not come from government…..never forget…


Nice try, hippie, but a strong military is essential to protect your freedom and the last time I checked, the military IS part of the government.


God bless the soldiers that have kept all of us free, even liberal extremists like “Rambunctious” over here.


Me liberal?….LOL do you even know how to read?…damn public school system….