Memorial Day

For the past eight years, I have had the distinct honor of scheduling U.S. military support for the annual Memorial Day ceremonies at the American cemeteries within Europe. This support ranges from a lone bugler or full military band to a missing-man formation of fighters.

This honor comes with my position at the U.S. European Command public Affairs office as the Chief of Community Relations. The unique aspect of my job is that my “community” is made up of the 51 countries and territories the command calls its area of responsibility.

Ensuring that communities all over the AOR are left awe struck as they witness the professionalism of a U.S. military band, are filled with patriotism while watching the flawless movements of a U.S. military honor guard or cheer for more as a formation of fighters fly overhead is a privilege I share with a select few individuals who also call themselves community relations experts.

I am humbled by having the privilege of honoring my fellow Americans who have sacrificed their lives during war time in service to our nation. The scheduling of dozens of Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen for Memorial Day is a duty I take very seriously.

This Memorial Day I hope you’ll join me in commemorating the sacrifices made by all our service members by attending a ceremony.

John Tomassi
Chief of Community Relations
U.S. European Command Public Affairs