Written by Patch Contributor Michael Loeschnig.
A beautiful sunrise was accompanied by a small, yet important gathering this morning at Town Square Park.
Among those who attended the event to pay tribute were: Mayor Rick Gibbs, Council members Randon Lane, Alan Long and Harry Ramos; Pastor Ren Sabio of New Hope Church who gave the invocation; Allen Saenz who sang the National Anthem; Lt. Daniel Larsen, U.S. Navy; Justin Vargas, VMHS Golden Alliance who played Taps; and the USMC 4th Medical Battalion of Miramar who were on hand for the Presentation of Colors.
A Field of Honor was displayed just outside the Police Department and City Hall. White tags were attached to dozens of American flags that listed the names of local heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice by giving their life for their country.
Monday's gathering concluded with the Laying of the Wreath by Mayor Rick Gibbs, which was placed next to a pair of tactical boots filled with flowers, while Justin Vargas, a student at Vista Murrieta High School and member of the Golden Alliance played Taps which brought tears to many.
Keynote speaker Lt. Daniel Larsen, U.S. Navy, told Vargas, "It brought tears to my eyes and I was very emotional."
The community was also invited to attend the Memorial Day Ceremony at Laurel Cemetery, which followed at 10 a.m.
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