Down-sized Service Recalls Vietnam Heroes

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Normally an occasion for big crowds, Carmichael’s Veterans Day tradition continued in much abbreviated format last week.  Commemorations took place at the Vietnam Monument in Koobs Nature Area on Engle Road. One of the first Californian monuments to the Vietnam War, the site was first dedicated in 1973, in recognition of La Sierra High School graduates who died in Vietnam conflicts. The preserve is named for Earl (Jack) Koobs, a La Sierra science teacher who helped establish it.

November 11 tributes conformed to COVID assembly restrictions, with just over 20 guests (including a Boy Scout color guard) included. Others were turned away at the gate but were able to watch the ceremony live-streamed. Reverend Kathleen Marie – a sister of memorial honoree Thomas Pigg – thanked veterans for freedoms enjoyed today. The La Sierra alumna was a teenager when she learned her 21-year-old brother had fallen. “We come to hallow memories,” she said, “and to make sure (those who died) are remembered forever. The benches here may not be filled today, but our hearts are filled.” 

Iraq War veteran Matt Cecatto spoke on the value of remembrance. “Respect for our veterans goes back to this country’s inception,” said the Purple Heart recipient. “To parents and brothers and sisters who can’t be here today, I promise these heroes will not be forgotten. Serving the military is the highest effort anyone can give to their nation.” Cecatto also lauded frontline workers in the current COVID emergency. “In bleak times, you’ve stood up,” he said. “I thank you. Our flag flies brighter because of the people like you.”

Carmichael rock singer Todd Morgan led the depleted throng in George M. Cohan’s "You’re a grand Old Flag" and “My Country ‘Tis of Thee.” Korean War veteran Bill Fellers (90) played Taps, echoed by Boy Scout bugler Edward Stach (14). With the ringing of a bell, the 15 heroes immortalized by a Koobs Nature area plaque were named.  

The honorees are: Robert D. Anderson, Mark W. Burchard, Robert S. Bynes, Jerry Cowsert, Kenneth R. Escott, Gary R. Field, Herbert Frenzell, Frank Thornburg, Ralph Guarienti, Larry H. Morford, Thomas C. Pigg, Randall B. Rainville, Kim Richins, Jeffry Tharaldson and Robert A. Willis.

Earl J. Koobs Nature Area is open to visitors. For information, go to www.carmichaelkiwanis.org or visit the Koobs Nature Area site on Facebook.