On September 2nd, FMHA held its annual VJ Day ceremony to signify the end of World War II
in the Pacific, which occurred during a formal surrender ceremony held September 2 1945 aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Harbor. This year the ceremony focused on the nearly 800 Delaware service men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country during World War II. Following an introduction by Dr Gary Wray, President of FMHA, Board member Will Short directed the ceremony, which featured a reading of 100 individual names of Delaware’s war dead. In subsequent VJ ceremonies 100 additional names will be saluted each year.
Photos of this event were provided by members of the Coastal Camera Club – George Evancho, Sam Markman and Anne Rhoads – many thanks to each of these great photographers.
13-year old Nicholas Schimmel, son of Mike Schimmel owner of Bella Terra Lighting and a great FMHA supporter, chimes a salute following the reading of each of the 100 names.
FMHA Bunker Busters and Board Members stage the VJ Day Ceremony.
FMHA Board Member and Treasurer Larry Boyer greets a visitor.
Delaware Senator Ernie Lopez before the ceremony – thanks for his support!
Dr. Gary Wray, President of FMHA, introduces the day’s events.
A color guard from American Legion Oak Orchard Riverdale Post 28 was on hand to salute the veterans, as Dr Wray mans the podium.
Marine veteran of WWII and Korea, Rudy Swanson, intently watches the ceremony. Mr. Swanson graciously loaned FMHA the vintage bell chime used in the ceremony.
Will Short, FMHA Board Member and Volunteer Coordinator, introduces FMHA members as they prepare to read the names of 100 of those Delaware service men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country during World War II.
