Memorial Day Observance set for Monday at Vancouver Barracks

CMAC grateful for the return of friends and neighbors to annual event honoring those who died in the service of the country

The annual Memorial Day Observance, brought to you by the Community Military Appreciation Committee, will be at 11 a.m. Monday at the bandstand on the Vancouver Barracks.

The event honors men and women who have lost their lives in the service of the country.

Visitors can view the garrison flag raish, a cannon firing by the Washington Army National Guard, and a wreath-laying ceremony in honor of fallen heroes.

The event is free.

CMAC organizes the observance with the city of Vancouver, the National Park Service, Clark County as well as with Waste Connections, Boys Scouts of America, Young Marines, and 40 et 8. 

The Vancouver Barracks is preserved by the National Park Service at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.

“Events like Memorial Day showcase the modern relevance of this historic site, and the enduring connection between the military post and this community,” said Alex Patterson, the NPS facility manager.

Retired Army Colonel Larry J. Smith and retired Air Force Colonel Mike Burton will be the master of ceremonies. 

“After a two-year absence from the Vancouver Barracks Parade Field because of COVID protocols, it will be great to see families, neighbors, and friends in person again to honor those service members who have given their lives to our country,” Smith said in a press release from CMAC. “Freedom is not free … and never forget.”

Guest speakers include Tracy Fortmann, superintendent of the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Anne McEnerny-Ogle, the mayor of Vancouver, Karen Dill Bowerman, Clark County council chair. The keynote speaker will be Col. Todd A. Hofford of the United States Air Force. Special remarks will be made by Melissa Scholl-Bellah, a Gold Star spouse. 

A complimentary light lunch will be available to the public, courtesy of Vancouver Lions, Red Cross Cascades Region, and the Military Officers Association of American.

C-TRAN buses 25, 32, and 37 will provide transportation directly to the bandstand that day. Parking is available at Hudson’s Bay High School, and attendees can ride a shuttle to and from the event.