Veterans Day at the Manila American Cemetery, 2013

For the sixth straight year we attended the Veterans Day ceremonies at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial. 

Of course, all who gathered were mindful of the terrible tragedy that occurred in the central Philippines just three days ago.  The destruction is unbelievable, and we do not use that term lightly.  There is speculation that as many as 10,000 died in the city of Tacloban, Leyte, alone.  Many of you are probably aware that Tacloban was the first major city in the Philippines to be liberated upon General MacArthur’s “return.”  We have visited the area three times with tour groups, and currently have plans to accompany groups to Leyte in April and October of 2014, although those trips are highly questionable at this point – the destruction is truly that bad.

In any case, we hope you will enjoy the photos that we took at the Veterans Day ceremony in Manila.

 

Steve, Marcia, and Richard McMahon

Leslie Ann Murray and Elsa

 

Rosalie and Bob Hudson with Marcia

 

Armed Forces of the Philippines Band

 

Presentation of Colors

 

U.S. Embassy Charge d' Affairs Brian L. Goldbeck

 

Keynote Speaker Lt. Gen. (ret.) Ernesto G. Carolina

 

Ceremonial Wreath Laying

 

Retirement of Colors