To: Board of Supervisors
Department or Agency Name(s): Human Services
Staff Name and Phone Number: Mark Orlando 565-5955, Paul Dunaway 565-3673
Vote Requirement: Majority
Supervisorial District(s): Countywide
Recommended Action:
Title
Adopt a Gold Resolution honoring Veterans of the armed services by recognizing May 30, 2022 as Memorial Day in Sonoma County.
End
Executive Summary:
There are over 25,000 Veterans in Sonoma County, as well as many families who have lost loved ones in service to our nation. This resolution to recognize May 30, 2022 as Memorial Day in Sonoma County is an acknowledgement of their sacrifices.
Discussion:
Memorial Day was first observed as Decoration Day on May 30, 1868 as an occasion to decorate the graves of Civil War Soldiers. After World War I, Decoration Day was expanded to honor service members killed in all of our nation’s wars. After World War II, Decoration Day became known as Memorial Day, and in 1971, Congress established Memorial Day as a federal holiday to be observed on the last Monday in May.
As we observe this Memorial Day, it is important to reflect upon the contributions and sacrifices the men and women of our armed forces have made in upholding the principles of democracy and liberty while in service to our nation.
There are over 25,000 Veterans and numerous family members living in Sonoma County who lost loved ones in service to our nation. It is fitting to honor and commend the citizens of Sonoma County, as well as the men and women that served with military units based in Sonoma County, who were killed in the line of duty. We can never fully repay our debt of gratitude to the heroic men and women who perished as a result of their service.
All active duty, veterans or retired military personnel and their dependents will be eligible for a waiver of the day use fee ($7 per vehicle) at all Sonoma County Regional Parks over Memorial Day weekend, Friday, May 27 through Monday, May 30, 2022. All other County Park fees (e.g. camping, picnic area rental, etc.) will still apply.
Prior Board Actions:
Every year since May 2015, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors has recognized Memorial Day and honored Sonoma County Veterans for their service:
May 11, 2021
May 19, 2020
May 14, 2019
May 22, 2018
May 23, 2017
May 16, 2016
May 19, 2015
Fiscal Summary
Narrative Explanation of Fiscal Impacts:
There are no Fiscal impacts.
Narrative Explanation of Staffing Impacts (If Required):
None
Attachments:
Resolution
Related Items “On File” with the Clerk of the Board:
None