Over 150 community members braved the wet and cool weather on Monday, May 31 to remember those who died while serving in the military.

The Memorial Day ceremony was again held at the War Memorial in downtown Lake Stevens, a focal point since its dedication on Memorial Day, 2001. Names on the War Memorial plaque were read as a bell tolled for each one who once lived in the Lake Stevens community.

A wreath was placed near the memorial to recognize their eternal sacrifice while serving in the military. The wreath has become a symbol for remembrance of the dead, especially to show respect for those who fought and died during wartime.

Two names were recently added to the plaque. Vernon Lawrence was a sailor serving in the Pacific Theater during World War II.

He was listed as lost at sea, but his body was later recovered and is interned at the American Cemetery in Manilla, Philippines.

Lawrence attended Lake Stevens High School but did not graduate because he enlisted in the Navy after the attack on Pearl Harbor. His information was discovered recently after carefully reviewing school and military records.

Dustin Canham, a 2004 graduate from Lake Stevens High School, died on Easter Sunday 2008, in the eastern African nation of Djibouti.

Canham’s U.S. Marine unit was supporting military operations against terrorism and conducting humanitarian projects in the area, all part of the ongoing Global War On Terrorism.
He left behind his wife Devyn, his father Mark, and brothers Mitch and John.

Later in the day, another event was held at Machias Cemetery where over 150 guests joined in the Memorial Day celebration and 21-gun salute.

The Memorial Day ceremony was conducted by American Legion Post 181 along with their women’s Auxiliary Unit 181.

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