Memorial Day Ceremony Honors Military

It's been four years since stories of her father-in-law's military service inspired Carrie Hackett to take her family to the observance ceremony held each Memorial Day in Lake Forest.

Since then, the annual visit to  to honor the military men and women who have died serving America has become a family tradition, she said.

“My favorite part is coming together and remembering,” Hackett said Monday. “It’s important for our kids to know that.”

The Hacketts were among hundreds that visited the cemetery Monday to participate in the ceremony.

The day marked Lake Forest’s 24th annual observance of , with a program that featured a keynote address by Col. John Fer and a cappella music by Saddleback Master Chorale.

Fer, a Vietnam War veteran and former prisoner of war, said: “That is why we celebrate Memorial Day, to remind us that we must be vigilant to protect the republic. It’s an honor to pay tribute to those who have dedicated their lives to the United States.”

After Fer’s speech, recognized the veteran on behalf of , honoring Fer's commitment and service in Vietnam.

“This is a sacred day, and every American should take a minute to remember those who have served,” Voigts said.

One by one, city officials placed wreaths decorated with roses and greenery against the backdrop of the stage.

was first to place a contribution
on the provided stand, bowing her head as she walked back to her seat.

Laguna Woods City Manager Leslie Keane, Laguna Hills Councilwoman Barbara Kogerman and Kathleen Mauzey, chair of the Mission Viejo chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, also participated in the wreath ceremony.

“These displays are meant to commemorate those who have served this country, and all of the sacrifices they made,” said Jackie Johnson, also with the Mission Viejo DAR chapter.

As members of the Mission Viejo-based VFW Post 6024 conducted a firing salute signaling the end of the ceremony—setting off a car alarm or two in the process—attendees held hands with the people standing at their side. 

“Colonel Fer, he opened a lot of eyes, and showed people to not take the holiday so lightly,” veteran Christopher McCullough Sr. said.

McCullough said that holding the ceremony in Lake Forest reminds residents what Memorial Day weekend is truly about.

“We’ve been doing it for a long time, and it keeps getting better and better,” he said. “More people show up each year, and more people start caring [about] what Memorial Day is really celebrating."