On May 22, Seattle City Light employees gathered at the North and South Service Centers to honor and remember those who sacrificed their lives in service to our country. This annual Memorial Day Flag Raising Ceremony holds special value for City Light employees, many of whom have served in the military. More than a hundred employees met to pay their respects and reflect on the deeper meaning of the day.
Honoring service and sacrifice
Led by employee volunteers, the ceremonies included an introduction by City Light leaders and readings by employees. Chief Operating Officer Mike Haynes welcomed attendees at the North Service Center. At the South Service Center, Director Bill Devereaux emceed the day’s events. Both North and South featured a Presentation of Colors by Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) partners from Seattle University, Liberty High School, and Everett High School.
“This ceremony is a time to pause and remember the men and women of the armed forces who gave their lives in service to our country,” Bill Devereaux shared, also highlighting the contributions of more than 120 City Light employees who have served across all five branches of the military.
Reflection and remembrance
Highlights of the ceremony included a poignant reading of John McCrae’s poem In Flanders Fields as well as heartfelt reflections on the meaning of Memorial Day.
“They gave up their todays for our tomorrows, and now we must carry their message of dedication and determination to the generations who serve today and those who will serve tomorrow,” Field Operations Supervisor Ed Hill said, capturing the solemn yet hopeful spirit of the occasion.
The events concluded with a moment of silence to honor the fallen. Attendees were invited to take poppy pins as a symbol of remembrance.
Continuing the legacy
City Light remains committed to honoring the sacrifices of service members and carrying forward their legacy. As we commemorate Memorial Day, we are reminded to live in a way that preserves the values they fought to protect. Thank you to the speakers, volunteers, and participants who made this meaningful event possible.