The Spirit of '45 Celebration, honoring the men and women of World War II, took place for the first time at Fort Lyon National Cemetery on Aug. 16, 2015, at 1 pm. In 2010, Congress passed a resolution to permanently and annually celebrate V-J Day on the second Sunday in August. Aug. 14, 1945, is known as the "Greatest Day" of the Greatest Generation.
American Legion Posts 6, 9, 94 and 9313 and VFW Auxiliary Post #2411 of Las Animas were the sponsors of the event. Pamela Valdez, District #6 President and President of Post #2411 VFW Auxiliary, was the master of ceremonies. She welcomed a crowd of about 65 people to the 70th Anniversary of the end of World War II. The American Legion members, under the direction of Johnny Comacho, posted the colors and Katie Peterson, daughter of Major Ron and Deb Peterson, sang the national anthem. Paul Romero, District #1 American Legion Chaplain gave the invocation. Pam Valdez presented a short history of V-J Day, Aug. 14, 1945, when Japan unconditionally surrendered five days after the dropping of the second atomic bomb. Sept 2, 1945, was the official signing of the surrender on the USS Missouri in the middle of Tokyo Bay. She at this time recognized a Purple Heart recipient and all veterans attending. VFW Auxiliary members handed them Buddy Poppies.
Bill Long, Bent County Commissioner, was the guest speaker. He summarized the integrity and courage of the men and women of World War II and how they rebuilt this great nation. Pam Valdez then formally recognized the six attending World War II veterans (four men and two women). Each shared memories of this special day and named the armed service in which they served. VFW Auxiliary members presented them with small flags.
The auxiliary members laid the Wreath of Remembrance at the foot of the center parade ground flag pole during a moment of silence. The American Legion concluded the ceremony with the Three Volley Salute and echo TAPS.
World War II music before and after the ceremony was provided by Mardona Moreland.
The six veterans who attended were Al Jones, Howard Martin of La Junta, Loyde and Fontella Gardner of Las Animas, Joe Seamon of Las Animas and Mildren Mitchell of Las Animas.
