Military Appreciation Month took on a new meaning Friday afternoon when supporters gathered at Flintstone Park to honor the three sailors killed April 6 in Iraq.

Representatives from the Navy and elected officials took time off to pay tribute to all military servicemen and women. First-graders from Olympic View Elementary led the large group in the Pledge of Allegiance while the Oak Harbor High School choir sang the Star Spangled Banner. With the sun shining and flags waving, the afternoon was tailor-made for patriotism.

Oak Harbor Mayor Patty Cohen implored the audience to humbly give honor to the men and women who courageously serve their country and for those who have lost their lives doing just that.

“May we never forget the preciousness of those sacrifices,” she said.

Dave Williams, former commanding officer of Whidbey Island Naval Air Station, provided an eloquent and moving speech expressing gratitude to the men and women in uniform.

The 32-year Navy veteran and 15-year employee of the city painted Oak Harbor in a flattering light.

“Like those of you in uniform today, I departed from here on numerous deployments and was on each occasion privileged to return to this place the poet Rod McCuen once described as ‘a bright island dreamed of but seldom found,’” Williams said.

Sailors from NAS Whidbey have been involved in the nation’s wars since the setting of the first watch in 1942. The current conflict in Iraq recently brought the war home with shattering force when three of the base’s own were killed.

Chief Petty Officer Gregory J. Billiter, Petty Officer 2nd Class Curtis R. Hall, and Petty Officer 1st Class Joseph “Adam” McSween were fatally wounded when a rocket struck their vehicle during a tactical combat patrol. Williams mentioned the private memorial held Monday on the base for the sailors.

“The history of our community is marked by many such memorial services, as our military men and women have left family and friends and departed from here to honor their commitment they made to our country,” he said. “I think it is fair to say that all of those who have done so are forever changed by the events and experiences of those times away from Whidbey’s shores.”

Williams effusively heaped praise on the military servicemen and women, thanking them for their selfless service.

“To our military and your families, we are proud of you,” he said in closing. “We salute you. We pray God’s blessing on you and yours. And we pray God’s blessing on our great nation, which you serve so well.”