Remembering the Fallen

By: Teresa Maldonado

Community Writer

Photo Courtesy of:

Cynthia Ramirez

Photo Description:

Colton leaders paying respect to those who have served and died for the country.

“And when you've carefully examined every feature of that soldier's face, stand up straight and tall and smile your best smile. Thank that soldier, because it does what some cannot or will not. It defends what it believes to be right with it's very life. But more important, it defends a perfect stranger --- you.” Isaac T. Suchil, acting as Mayor Pro Tem opened his speech with these words from a piece called “A Soilder’s Face”. Reminding us to honor our heroes. It was a beautiful morning at the Hermosa Gardens Cemetery and Inland Memorial Mortuary as veterans, families of veterans, dignitaries, community leaders, and residents of Colton gathered to honor those who have fallen fighting for our freedom. Residents young and old were present visiting and decorating the graves of their loved ones. First Class Holly Berry Ivy, a radio technician who passed away serving the country during WWII, was honored during the annual ceremony. Three generations of his family were there on his behalf to accept an award given in his memory. Councilmen and veteran David Toro shared, “Although we remember our loved ones everyday, on Memorial day we come together as a nation to honor all those who have died for our freedom.”