United States Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim yesterday expressed hope that his country and the Philippines may continue to “walk the path of freedom” to protect both their citizens and promote peace and prosperity for all.
Kim led American and Filipino veterans in commemorating the 100th anniversary of the end of World War 1 at the Manila American Cemetery in Taguig City.
The ceremony began at 11am to commemorate the time that “major hostilities of World War 1 formally ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.”
“Exactly 100 years ago, the guns of World War 1 fell silent and those who fought in the terrible conflict began gathering their fallen and returning home to rebuild their relations and lives.
Those who lived on those days called it the ‘great war,’ or the the ‘war to end all wars.’ They gave thanks for peace and for those who served their sacrifice to bring that peace. They hoped that their lives will move on,” Kim said.
“We can never fully repay our veterans for all their sacrifice for us. But we can show our profound appreciation, respect on this day. The Philippines is our oldest treaty alliance in Asia and our strong bond will remain unbreakable,” he added.
“We honour the service of all living and dead to set aside safety and a comfortable life to guard freedom for all of us. We commemorate not just the fallen but also those who served and lived. Those who placed their country and loved ones above themselves,” the ambassador said.
“There are many great examples. My favourite is the service and sacrifice of (retired] general and [former] president Fidel Ramos. General, thank you and we celebrate your life every single day. And he is of course a proud graduate of West Point Class of 1950,” he added.
Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Carlito Galvez Jr enjoined everyone “to remember the courage and bravery of our heroes, fallen or living for we are forever indebted to them.”
“On this day, I’m greatly honoured and privileged to stand here and give my salute to our heroes and veterans who valiantly fought for the democratic institutions that we have. May their valour transcend to inspire generations and spark the spirit of nationalism and patriotism among each and everyone of us,” he said.
“Let their sacrifices inspire us to keep on fighting for democracy that we long held and for the integrity of national territory.
Today, the lives and memories of our veterans shall rekindle our passion to serve not only our individual core interests but our collective aspiration for freedom, peace and love of humanity and global good,” Galvez added.
Gen. Robert Brown, commanding general of the US Army Pacific, also honoured the veterans.
“We can never, we can never forget their sacrifice. Veterans Day reminds us of our responsibility to those who have sacrificed for our way of life,” he said.
“To recognise, remember and honour those who, in the words of (United States President) Abraham Lincoln, gave the last full measure of devotion. We honour them today and with the way we live our lives everyday,” Brown added.
US Ambassador to Manila Sung Kim stands at attention as members of the military offer a wreath at the Manila American Cemetery in Taguig City.
