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5/27/2025—Tears mixed with rain as hundreds gathered at the CNMI Veterans Cemetery in Marpi to commemorate Memorial Day and honor the lives of the Commonwealth’s fallen service members.
Delivering a deeply personal and emotional keynote address, CNMI special assistant for Military Affairs and retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Edward C. Camacho reminded attendees that Memorial Day is not only about remembering those who died in uniform, but also recognizing all veterans and their sacrifices—even after they leave service.
“We are all members of this esteemed family,” Camacho told the audience, which included Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang, Bishop Romeo Convocar, House Speaker Edmund Villagomez, Chief Justice Ramona Mangloña, CNMI and federal officials, and veterans and their families. “Let’s break the trend of letting our heroes be forgotten after they pass. We must thank and honor them while they are still among us.”
Camacho, who recently retired from nearly 44 years of military service, urged the community to commit to preserving the memories of the fallen and to create space for meaningful, regular remembrance.
“The drums of war are always followed by the bugles of taps,” Camacho said. “The end of war is only known by those who died trying to end it.”
He also called on veterans in the audience to stand and be recognized, as a powerful reminder of their dwindling numbers. “Let this be a wake-up call to show our appreciation in life—not just in death,” he said.
Camacho’s speech followed opening remarks by CNMI Veterans Affairs executive director Jose DLG Crisostomo, who underscored the significance of Memorial Day as a solemn reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by servicemembers.
“We gather to pay our respects to the fallen… to offer tribute in prayer, in silence, and with humble gratitude,” said Crisostomo, who dedicated this year’s ceremony to the late Command Sgt. Maj. Benjamin C. Palacios, the first indigenous Chamorro to serve under a four-star general.
He then thanked those who attended the Memorial Day ceremony to gather together to pay their respects to the “humble souls” who and in the service of their nations.
“We must ensure that the price paid was not done so without recognition of the cost and what we exercise gratitude and humility for the gifts with which we have been bestowed. And while we stand ready to face any hazard in the name of our republics, our constitution, and our families, our thoughts must hearken back to those whose moral sacrifices secured the liberty that we hold dear. It is because of their courage that we walk encumbered by the yoke of tyranny.”
Palacios, in his welcome remarks, emphasized the enduring legacy of the CNMI’s own sons and daughters who gave their lives for freedom and peace.
“Memorial Day is more than remembrance—it is a reaffirmation of the values they fought to protect,” the governor said. “Chamorro and Carolinian warriors have a legacy that stretches generations, rooted in interdependence, mutual respect, and unconditional care.”
Palacios called on the community to not only honor the fallen through ceremony but also through action—supporting their families, preserving their stories, and living with the same selfless spirit.
“Today, let us remember their deep-rooted resilience, grit, and community spirits. Eternally remind us that we are never alone. Their abiding commitment and dedication, mission focused on safeguarding peace locally and globally. Together, we honor our fallen, not just with words but with action, by preserving their stories, supporting their families, and living with the same selflessness they showed through their selfless service up to their ultimate demise. Today, as our islands' waves crash upon the shores of Saipan, Tinian, Rota, and the Northern Islands, let them carry our prayers for the departed.”
The ceremony was filled with poignant moments, including the traditional Roll Call of Fallen Comrades, read by emcee John Oliver Gonzales and Heather Pangilinan-Stoll, which listed veterans buried at the cemetery and local Marine Scouts who served during and after World War II.
The invocation was led by Bishop Romeo D. Convocar of the Diocese of Chalan Kanoa, preceded by the U.S. and CNMI national anthems performed by Augustin M. Kaipat.
A solemn 21-gun salute was rendered by Echo Company of the 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry Regiment, and the 302nd Quarter Master Army Reserve. This was followed by “Taps,” played by the Saipan Pacific Winds Concert Band and bagpiper Sam Sosa, evoking emotion from the entire crowd.
The posting of colors was performed by the award-winning color guard from Saipan Southern High School JROTC, also known as the Manta Ray Battalion.
Among the notable attendees were Senate President Dennis Mendiola, Judge Kenneth Govendo, CNMI and federal government representatives, veterans' organizations like Body Check 670 and the CNMI Chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and many Gold Star families—those who have lost loved ones in combat.
As the event concluded, Camacho reminded all present to cherish every moment with veterans while they are still here. “Don’t say ‘someday’—put it on your calendar,” he said. “It would be too late to thank a veteran after they are laid to rest.”
The event closed with the laying of the official wreath, led by Palacios and Apatang, flanked by service members, veterans, and dignitaries in honor of the CNMI’s bravest.
By Mark Rabago
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