RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) – A familiar melody, a flag-themed tribute and a room filled with students, veterans and families marked Memorial Day in Rancho Cordova as the community gathered to honor those who died in military service, reflect on the meaning of the national holiday and recognize the beginning of the America 250 commemoration.

The 18th annual Memorial Day Observance, “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” was held Monday, May 25, at the Cordova High School Performing Arts Center, 2239 Chase Drive. Hosted by the Cordova Community Council, the free event began at 10 a.m.

Residents of all ages attended the observance, proudly displaying American flags during the ceremony.

“Memorial Day is the official kickoff nationwide of the America 250 celebration, and we were proud to make that a focus of our Memorial Day Observance in Rancho Cordova,” said Cordova Community Council Executive Director Shelly Blanchard.

Organizers emphasized that the milestone would not be possible without the sacrifices of those who served.

“We actually began our America 250 activities with ‘America the Beautiful’ at Kids Day and continued with ‘E Pluribus Unum’ at iFest,” said Blanchard. “But no observance of our 250th anniversary could have greater meaning than pausing to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice, as observed on Memorial Day. We are able to celebrate 250 years of the Declaration of Independence because of the thousands of Americans who have given their lives to defend it. And that’s what Memorial Day is all about.”

The 18th annual Memorial Day Observance, titled “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” was held Monday, May 25, at the Cordova High School Performing Arts Center.

Rancho Cordova City Councilmember and Cordova Community Council President David M. Sander, Ph.D., served as emcee for the event. In remarks provided by organizers, the council emphasized its continued commitment to honoring military service members and their families through community programming.

“The Cordova Community Council is proud to present community events honoring those who have bravely served the nation in times of war and peace for 250 years,” organizers said in a statement.

The program featured a performance by the Rancho Cordova River City Concert Band and included a student art exhibition organized by the Cordova Community Council. The contest invited students in grades TK through 12 to submit 2-dimensional artwork interpreting the American flag as part of the America 250 theme.

Rancho Cordova City Councilmember and Cordova Community Council President David M. Sander, Ph.D., served as emcee for the event.

“As part of the Memorial Day Observance, the Cordova Community Council sponsored a student art contest, challenging students to create an artful rendition of the American Flag,” said Blanchard. “This is the second year we have sponsored the Memorial Day Student Art Contest. A goal is help our youngest Americans learn about important national symbols, such as the flag.”

Nearly 100 entries were submitted, with 10 winners selected. Their artwork was displayed at the event, where families and community members viewed the pieces and met some of the student artists.

“Any time we can make space for our children to participate, we are fostering their education in our American history and values,” said Blanchard. “The public loved it.”

Memorial Day, observed nationwide on the last Monday in May, is traditionally dedicated to remembering U.S. service members who died in military service. Across the country, communities mark the day with ceremonies, parades and gatherings that often include music, flag displays and moments of reflection.