Observe Memorial Day in Campbell and Silicon Valley

by Sheila Sanchez 

Memorial Day is a federal holiday that falls the last Monday in May giving us the chance to remember the men and women who died while serving in the Armed Forces.

According to history sources, the observance began after the American Civil War to honor soldiers who died in combat.

Fast forward 150 years and the patriotic holiday now pays solemn tribute to all Americans who have died while serving in the military.

So, what is the best way to honor the holiday? Here is a list of Memorial Day events planned in the Orchard City, Saratoga, Los Altos and San Jose. 

In Campbell, The American Legion Post 99 hosts Operation Freedom Paws and CNN Hero Mary Cortani along with her service dogs and veteran trainers all day Monday, May 27 to raise funds and discuss how service dogs help our vets at 1344 Dell Ave.
This will be a joint fundraising opportunity with another organization that is raffling off a handmade quilt made by one our Post members in support of the Fisher House near the VA in Palo Alto. It is expected that several Posts in attendance.
Details: 408-379-6420, or westvalleypost99@gmail.com.

In Saratoga, the 85th annual Memorial Day Observance is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 27 at the Memorial Arch in Blaney Plaza. Following a flag ceremony and the laying of the wreath there will be a procession to Madronia Cemetery, 14766 Oak St. At 10 a.m. the observance continues.
This year co-owner of Cooper-Garrod Estate Vineyards Bill Cooper and Saratoga High School senior Bennett Lopez will be the keynote speakers. The Saratoga Foothill Club, with the help of many community organizations, including Saratoga High School, Redwood Middle School and boys and girls scouts, sponsors the observance.
Details: Cynthia Chang, 408-867-7111.

In Los Altos, a Memorial Day Mass will be celebrated at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 22555 Cristo Rey Drive, at 11 a.m. Monday, May 27. A veterans' tribute is scheduled for 10:40 a.m. and Mass will be presided by San Jose Catholic Diocese Bishop Thomas Daly.408-297-2447.
Details: Nicole Lecheler, 650-428-3730.

In San Jose, a Memorial Day Mass will be celebrated at Calvary Cemetery, 2650 Madden Ave., at 11 a.m. Monday, May 27. A veterans' tribute is scheduled for 10:40 a.m.
Details: Nicole Lecheler, 650-428-3730.

Also in San Jose, and perhaps the biggest observance in Silicon Valley, will be the 95th annual United Veterans Council of Santa Clara County Memorial Day ceremony at 11 a.m. Monday, May 17 at Oak Hill Memorial Park, 300 Curtner Ave.
Details: 408-297-2447.