Hundreds gathered on Monday at the Veterans Association of North County Resource Center in Oceanside to remember and honor military members, and their buddies.
For Vietnam veteran and Veterans of Foreign War Post 10577 commander, James Jones, the day was about remembering fellow veterans, sharing war stories and laughs, and healing.
“On a day like today we’ll just sit around, eat barbecue and reflect on all the good times we had,” Jones said.
Sharing war stories helps veterans connect, Jones said, and learn more about each other. The day also is a time to reflect.
“About dusk we start thinking about some of the somber times, and some of the guys. 'Wish so-and-so was here,'" Jones said. “Usually it’s just a time of reflecting on the good that happened with us -- at least my crowd, that’s what we do.”
Jones said when he first returned from the Vietnam War he suffered from PTSD. He struggled with the question, “Could I have done things differently?” He has come to the resolve he could not.
Jones was one of a dozen speakers at the Memorial Day ceremony in North County.
Red, white and blue carnations were placed on a simulated grave to pay respects to all veterans who gave their lives in battle, and honor all those who have passed away after returning home from war.
