On Memorial Day at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, the Veterans Group of San Quentin lay a wreath to commemorate the fallen soldiers of the armed forces.
A display of Several flags to represent the various entities of the armed forces along the fence of the Lower Yard, in front of R&R. A large number of veterans attended the ceremony, most of them part of the VGSQ.
While the trumpet played “Adjutant’s Call,” the members of VGSQ stood at attention. Many residents respectfully stopped their activities during this moment of recognition.
“This day represents honoring all the fallen service men and women who gave their lives to keep liberty and freedom in this country. We also honor those who are protecting our nation at this moment today as active members of the armed forces,” said resident and veteran Richard Otto.
Members of VGSQ changed the guard every 15 minutes throughout the ceremony. Many incarcerated veterans exchanged their experiences of their active service. They all commemorated their fellow service members who did not make it back home.
The honor guard placed flags at this commemoration and handed out fact sheets that explained the origin and history of Memorial Day.
“I remember my grandfather who served in WWII, Frank Burr, my brother who served in Vietnam, Frank Cadman, and my father who served in the Korean War, Connie Mack Chanault,” said incarcerated person, Darrel L. Chenault. He served in the Army at the “European Theater” in Germany.
“I’m also remembering their service for their nation, and friends I served with that have fallen,” added Chenault.
Observance of Memorial Day started back on May 30, 1868, as “Decoration Day.” Starting in 1971, its observation changed to the last Monday of May, beginning a custom that placed the American flag on the graves of veterans.
Official recognition as a holiday started in 1873 in New York. In 1971, Congress standardized the holiday as “Memorial Day,” according to a historical fact sheet posted at the wreath laying event.
“The VGSQ are very well organized. They are also supported by outside organizations. We are frowned upon for being in prison, but it’s nice that support for the veterans exists here,” said resident and veteran Joel Barrera.
Every time the VGSQ made its presence known at events at SQRC, it increased awareness within the prison community. This attracted new veteran arrivals to participate and support other incarcerated veterans in their rehabilitative efforts.
“I take pride in my military service even while in prison,” said resident John Logsdon about Memorial Day. “We still get a second chance to live life and freedom with our families because of our military veterans when we go home. We have a free nation because of them.”
