Covid-19 has rendered events that are part of our routine, heritage and legacy, not possible in 2020. Some posts, like Hollywood Post 43, have an annual tradition of putting on a Memorial Day program. This year, however, that program has been forced to be virtual in nature.
The Post 43 recorded program will go live on Facebook and Instagram, at 12 noon (Pacific) immediately following the Los Angeles National Cemetery event that airs on ABC7.
Hollywood being Hollywood, embarked on a star-studded recorded program. Commander Jennifer Campbell and 2nd Vice Commander Jeff Daly talked about this alternative solution, in March when the pandemic restrictions on meetings were first imposed. Commander Campbell did most of the organizing and invitations to our local elected officials. She was able to secure participation from most of our local representatives, including Post 43 member, Mayor Eric Garcetti and SAL Squadron 43 member, Congressman Adam Schiff. Vice Commander Daly reached out to the National American Legion Headquarters and National Commander Bill Oxford was happy to submit his video.
In addition to those requested videos, the Post 43 Memorial Day crew lead by Squadron 43 Commander-elect Ryan Pratt, director and Post 43 Photographer/Videographer Joseph Paul, director of photography, met at the Post for production. On camera, you will see Campbell and Daly, along with 1st Vice Commander Pete Lisowski, Adjutant Dianna Wilson, Sgt At Arms Quinton Farina, Legion Theater Director Bill Steele. Chaplain Donna Callaway leads both the opening and closing prayers, and Lawrence Evans sings the National Anthem. Taps is played by ALR Chapter 43 President-elect Bill Churchville.
Please note that the entire production was a crew of under 10 people. Everyone wore masks, except when on camera and maintained social distancing.
While Post 43 would prefer to invite you to physically attend, this is an opportunity to broadcast the efforts of the Legion Family in Hollywood, to our entire American Legion community. All are invited to honor those who have fallen, making the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. Let’s #rememberthem together.
Author: Jeff Daly
Jeff Daly grew up in Kalamazoo, MI before joining the Marine Corps. After his service he went to the small, private, liberal arts school Kalamazoo College, where he studied Economics and Political Science. Jeff's American Legion time has been short, but packed. He is the 2nd Vice Commander of Post 43, and on the Executive Committee for the LA County Council. He also serves as Technical Advisor for the Department Media & Communications. Being an actor in Hollywood, Jeff serves on the Military Affairs, and the Media & Communications Committee for Los Angeles Local SAG-AFTRA. You can keep up with Jeff's thoughts on veterans issues by subscribing to his podcast. That is hosted at http://anchor.fm/dalydose. From there you can get links to b subscribe on your favorite music & podcast app.
