On Friday, November 1 at 1 p.m., Manassas Park City held its annual Veterans Flag Ceremony outside City Hall, honoring the men and women who served in the United States Armed Forces. Led by the Manassas Park Honor Guard, the event began with reverence and respect as the Color Guard of the American Legion Post 10 presented the colors, marking the beginning of a solemn yet festive occasion. Interim City Manager Keith Nguyen welcomed attendees. Alisha Morka’s rendition of the national anthem followed as voices joined in unison to celebrate the freedoms the veterans fought to protect. A key moment during the ceremony came when Commissioner Charles Ziegler, commissioner of the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, took the stage. Ziegler, a retired Navy veteran with 31 years of service, spoke movingly about the sacrifices of veterans and the enduring symbolism of the American flag. “The American flag has been the symbol of our nation’s unity, as well as a source of pride and inspiration for millions of citizens,” he noted. “Every pledge of allegiance we make, and every flag raising we witness, is a celebration, and it honors the deeper meaning of how we live our lives and what we believe.” Looking back to the origins of the Pledge of Allegiance, Ziegler emphasized the importance of patriotism and unity in today’s world, drawing a parallel with historical efforts to instill loyalty and respect for the nation. “How many of us, despite all the distractions we have today, think about patriotism?” he asked the crowd. “The raising of our flag and our Pledge of Allegiance embodies patriotism, sacrifice, devotion, security and loyalty.” The Honor Guard formally raised the veterans flag, followed by remarks from Constantine Ferssizidis, board member of the Northern Virginia Veterans Association, and Josh Himan, a combat-wounded Marine and graduate of Hylton High School. Himan shared his personal story, highlighting his journey from civilian life to the Marine Corps and his experiences in Afghanistan, where he suffered serious injuries. He thanked the support of Semper Fi & America’s Fund for helping him and his family in his recovery. “They were always with me from the beginning,” he said. “I am proud that Semper Fi has grown to serve all branches and support more than 33,000 veterans nationwide.” Councilmember Laura Hampton offered a local perspective, sharing stories of Manassas-area veterans and highlighting their vital role in the community. “Veterans are the lifeblood of a thriving and vibrant community,” said Hampton, adding: “The best way to honor the service of veterans is to speak their names, share their stories and recognize their contributions to our country to remember.” She talked about meeting local veterans, including Harry Humphrey, a Vietnam veteran who served with the 293rd Engineer Battalion Transportation Company. She called it an honor to witness and share their legacy. The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Nguyen, who expressed his deep gratitude to all the veterans in attendance and nationwide. “As we gather here today, may we continue to honor and support those who served, and may we remember that the freedoms we enjoy are because of their sacrifices,” he declared. The Manassas Park Veterans Flag Ceremony is a poignant reminder of the city’s commitment to honoring its veterans, recognizing their contributions to national security and their integral role in the community. In Manassas Park and Prince William County, veterans make up a significant portion of the population. They strengthen local businesses, enrich community values ​​and shape future generations with their resilience and service.

@ManassasParkGov hosts #veterans Today there is a flag raising ceremony outside City Hall. pic.twitter.com/Xby0TO4NRa

— Potomac Local News (@PotomacLocal) November 1, 2024