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Rain joined the gathering at Normandy Park City Hall on Tuesday, Nov. 10, but it didn’t get the last word. Neighbors tucked beneath tents with coffee, donuts and plenty to talk about as they thanked local veterans for their service.
Aimee Lloyd, the city’s Parks and Recreation Manager, told us that for the past four years, Normandy Park has held this gathering the day before Veterans Day, when City Hall closes for the holiday. It’s a chance to spend a little time with the veterans in our community and hear the stories they choose to share.
We met several veterans, including Chris Plyman of the Des Moines Memorial Drive Preservation Association.
We also met Trice Bonney and Susan Reanier, two neighbors from the Parkside Garden Club who help tend the Blue Star Memorial Garden in front of City Hall. The Blue Star became a symbol of military service during World War II, and the memorial honors all who have served, are serving or will serve in the United States Armed Forces.
One veteran spoke with us about the Vietnam War and his concerns for the future. He shared that he had lost a number of friends from high school. It was a moment to pause and listen, remembering that the people we honor carry memories of friends who never came home.
Plyman told us about another opportunity to gather: the Veterans Day celebration at Sunnydale School in Burien on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. The Des Moines Memorial Drive Preservation Association is sponsoring the ceremony, which will include a special presentation featuring Unkitawa Indigenous Veterans.
Fellow association member Diane Kennish shared that the program will also feature the American Legion Color Guard, vocalist Kate Bysheim, the Highline Exchange Club and Skagg’s vintage military vehicles.
Plyman also mentioned the Seattle Southside Military History Audio Tour, which includes Des Moines Memorial Drive, our local Living Road of Remembrance. We look forward to learning more about the tour and sharing the history along this familiar road.
It was good to spend time with our local veterans, hear their stories and thank them in person. We’re glad we stopped by, rain and all.
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