Guest Opinion | Celebrate Memorial Day Virtually with Us

On Monday while most residents are still asleep, a few of us will be heading up Eaton Canyon before day break.

We will reach the second switch back vista, there we will hold a Memorial Day service. We request members of the public not join us, to ensure the safety of those conducting this ceremony, but have provided a link to watch online. bit.ly/PasadenaRemembers

As the sun breaks over the mountains, illuminating the valley below we will gather and remember those of our military, who have given the ultimate sacrifice for this country.

Monday’s memorial is especially important as we take time to recognize our neighbors, friends and the families that are in mourning for the lives lost due to the COVID-19 virus. The purpose of this event is also to help the community find hope and healing during these turbulent times.  We also wish to honor the many frontline workers and first responders, who have been risking their lives and their families, in order for us to stay home and stay safe.

We will begin with a prayer, and recognition of what Memorial Day represents. We will remember our fallen military with 7 tolls of the honor bell representing the 7 stages of a veterans life. Additionally we will recognize those who have died due to COVID-19. We will read aloud the numbers of lost in each of our surrounding communities (Altadena, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena and Pasadena).

We would like to read aloud the names of local victims but have had great difficulty finding them. This information has not been made public, to protect their privacy. If they would like to submit their loved one’s name, please email

Then we will read a poem and ring the a bell for each of the members of our community lost to this devastating virus.

A member of the Pasadena Scottish Pipes and Drum will play “Amazing Grace”.

We will conclude with a final thank you to all the member of the community: Nurses, Doctors, Aid Workers, Firefighters, Grocery clerks, frontline workers and first responders.

We end with a simple request, respect their sacrifice and honor those that lost their lives, wear your mask, be safe and know… and know above all,

We Are In This Together.