Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. –
Leaders from the 305th Air Mobility Wing hosted the Battle of Midway 76th Commemoration at the Westfield Hangar here, June 5.
The commemoration is a celebration of the victory during World War II June 4-7, 1942, and is considered the turning point during World War II in the seas and air near the South Pacific. Approximately 300 people attended the ceremony where they saw the parade of colors and flag folding presented by the Navy Support Activity Honor Guard and a wreath-laying presentation.
Chief Petty Officer Arjuna Strong, 305th Operations Support Squadron air department leading chief aviation boatswain mate, believes the annual ceremony was a huge victory so the event is more of a celebration rather than a remembrance.
“Everyone knows history is a big deal for [the military],” said Strong. “Remembering what happened and who lost their lives reminds us now not to make the same mistakes.”
In addition to the service members who attended, classes from two local elementary schools visited to watch the ceremony this year. This event was an opportunity for children to learn about one of the victories of the country they live in.
“It’s important to preserve history,” said Mary Jo Disharoon, Naval Support Activity admin officer. “People need to know the good things our military has done and the positive outcomes in order to understand the amount of despair we endure when we do lose.”