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Community Corner

Veterans Saluted Saturday at Park Semper Fi

The hour-long veterans ceremony paid respect to those who serve the country.

Inactive and active service men and woman assembled at Park Semper Fi to honor veterans, San Clemente’s adopted marine regiment and the Marine Corp’s 237th birthday on Saturday.

The sun was glistening off the ocean and the American flag rippled elegantly in the stronger-than-usual wind as people enjoyed the brass horn sounds of Pete Jacobs and his Wartime Radio Revue. Various hymns of the Air Force, Navy, Army, Coast Guard and Marines were played and each member stood to be recognized when their branch’s tune was performed. 

Mayor Jim Evert spoke and greeted the crowed after thanking the Marines for their service and wished them a happy 237th. The event’s featured speaker was Lt. Col. Robert S. Weiler, commanding officer of the 2/4 Marines 5th Regiment. The decorated officer gave a moving speech and reflected back to the attacks of Sept. 11 and the ongoing dedication of the Marine Corp’s preservation of America’s freedom.

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Some of the many veterans who attended the event were Frank Denison, who served 48 days in Normandy with the Air Force, and Col. Bill Cadzow of the Army. Cadzow especially enjoyed the music from the Pete Jacobs Wartime Radio Revue and said, “These guys are the best.”

Another attending veteran was Paul Smith, who served in Vietnam with the 65-67 I Marine Corps and was handing out blue poppies for the Disabled American Veterans. Smith especially enjoyed words from local politician Wayne Egelston and the presence of two generals and the event. Smith also said, “You can’t beat this band.” 

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The forecast of rain never became a reality, and the veterans and active-service members were well honored for their service to the country. The Pete Jacobs Wartime Radio Revue will be performing at Casino San Clemente on Sunday, Nov. 18 from 3 to 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $25.00 at the door. 

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