Page 23 - ATA

A16 LOCAL
Friday 31 May 2019

A Review of Memorial Day on Eagle Beach

EAGLE BEACH — On Memorial Day morning in
2002 four US armed forces veterans, their friends
and families gathered on Eagle Beach at Cos-
ta Linda. The purpose of the gathering was to
honor all those who had paid the ultimate sac-
rifice 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.

The organization is pleased to say that since
that first ceremony participation has indeed in-
creased significantly. From the beginning they
have attempted to keep the ceremony simple,
solemn, and apolitical. “We’ve kept it solemn
for obvious reasons, simple because of the ages
of some of our vets who might find it difficult to
stand in the sun too long, and apolitical be-
cause we were/are all visitors in Aruba and un-
derstood 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 the event had at-
tracted 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, we encourage participants to wear
any uniforms or national symbols they wish to
wear.”

The poem We Stand by the Sea (anonymous)
was read as a memorial wreath of flowers was
placed in the surf. There was 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 organization is grateful
to all that were present and the Costa Linda
Beach Resort for their continuous support. q