Shandel Sutherland • May 27, 2025
Memorial Day 2025 in Borrego Springs
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Honoring the Fallen at Christmas Circle
On May 26, 2025, the Borrego Springs community gathered at Christmas Circle for a powerful Memorial Day ceremony hosted by American Legion Post 853. The event honored those who gave their lives in service to the United States, with a program led by local veterans, volunteers, and faith leaders.
The ceremony opened with the National Anthem performed by Judy Taylor, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Kym McNabb, Secretary of the American Legion Auxiliary. Pastor Mateo Mamea of Community United Methodist Church gave the invocation, and Father Dave Madsen of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church closed the program with the benediction. Both clergy are members of the Borrego Ministers Association, which plays an essential role in supporting the community during times of reflection and remembrance.
Commander Dale Jones delivered a welcome address and led a moment of silent prayer. The Walk of Honor was presented by Gina Moran, and Marjorie Schuessler distributed symbolic red poppies to honor the fallen. Remarks were shared by ChrisAnn Wells, President of the Auxiliary, and Heide White, Finance Officer for the American Legion.
Judy Taylor returned to perform God Bless America and Traveling Soldier, a heartfelt substitution for America the Beautiful, which proved especially moving on this day of remembrance. Kathy Pratt recited the poem In Flanders Fields by Lt. Col. John McCrae.
A rifle salute was conducted by members of the American Legion and Sons of the American Legion, led by Paul Schuessler, followed by Taps performed by Harry Jones.
Lunch was served afterward at Post 853, with donations supporting veteran and youth programs. The day concluded with participation in Taps Across America at 3:00 p.m., a national moment of remembrance.
Flags were placed along Palm Canyon Drive and at the Circle. Setup and logistics were handled by a committed volunteer group known as the “Roadie Team.” A highlight of the event was the WWII-era Scout Car, maintained and driven by Bob Scribner, which rolled through Christmas Circle as a living piece of history.
“Special thanks to Tito’s Auto Care for coming through at the last minute,” said Commander Dale Jones. “They replaced the battery on Sunday, just in time for the Scout Car to roll through the ceremony.”
2025 Memorial Day Ceremony – Program Participants
- National Anthem: Judy Taylor
- Pledge of Allegiance: Kym McNabb – ALA, Secretary
- Invocation: Pastor Mateo Mamea – Community United Methodist Church & Borrego Ministers Association
- Commander’s Welcome: Dale Jones – TAL Post 853, Commander
- Walk of Honor: Gina Moran – ALA, Executive Chair
- Poppy Distribution: Marjorie Schuessler – ALA
- Silent Prayer: Dale Jones
- Music – God Bless America: Judy Taylor
- Music – Traveling Soldier (in place of America the Beautiful): Judy Taylor
- American Legion Auxiliary Address: ChrisAnn Wells – ALA, President
- The American Legion Address: Heide White – TAL, Finance Officer
- Poem – Flanders Fields: Kathy Pratt – ALA
- Benediction: Father Dave Madsen – St. Barnabas Episcopal Church & Borrego Ministers Association
- Rifle Salute:
- Leader: Paul Schuessler – TAL, Executive Board
- Team Members:
- Earl Pratt (SAL)
- Bob Scribner (TAL Sgt-at-Arms)
- Ed Cate (TAL Executive Board)
- Gary Saunders (TAL Judge Advocate)
- Dennis O’Leary (TAL 2nd Vice Commander)
- Richard Wheelock (TAL Chaplain)
- Chris Pedersen (SAL Commander)
- Taps: Harry Jones – TAL
- Commander’s Closing: Dale Jones
- Photographer: Scott McNabb – SAL, 2nd Vice Commander
Volunteer Equipment & Setup Team ("Roadie Team")
- Konki Jarvis
- Michelle Llamas
- Humberto Torres-Arias
- Jorge Torres-Arias
- Brian Peet
- Bob Scribner
- Gary Saunders
- Ed Cate
- Jim Keith
- Dennis O’Leary
- Scott McNabb
- Gina Moran
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