Western Diocese

In recognition of the selfless heroism of Armenian men and women who have served with distinction in the United States Armed Forces, "A Historic Tribute to Veterans" was held on Sunday, November 9, 2008, at 2 p.m., in the Ararat Home's Sheen (Goevkalayjian) Chapel, Mission Hills, CA.  The event was planned, organized, and presented by the Armenian Professionals Network (APN), in collaboration with the Ararat-Eskijian Museum and the Ararat Home of Los Angeles Valley Guild, under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America. The following inspired and inspiring article was written by 15-year-old Melanie Tatiossian, a sophomore at Calabasas High School, who aspires to pursue a career in journalism. It is evident that she is well on her way! SNM

"A Historic Tribute to Veterans" by Melanie Tatiossian

As I walked up the stairs leading to the Sheen Chapel, the only thought in my mind was the chilly weather.  I walked through the wooden doors, and thought it was going to be another ordinary day.  But little did I know it would change my life forever.  I decided to attend the event because my mom needed me to assist her as part of the welcoming committee.   All I kept thinking was "What is a fifteen-year-old girl doing at a gathering of eighty-year-olds?" But soon enough, I found out why God had sent me there. 

As the event unfolded, everybody became a bit more eager. People in attendance included Veterans and their families, City Council members, Clergy, and prominent members of the community.  Volunteers all had designated jobs.  Some were at the sign-in table, some were at the registration table, some seated the guests, and some, including myself, handed out programs. Standing in front of the Chapel, I got a glimpse of every Veteran who attended.  Most of them were casually dressed, but some of them were in their military uniforms. 

After everyone was escorted to their seats, the event began.  The first speaker, Mrs. Sylva Natalie Manoogian, presented a welcoming speech.  She also gave background about the Armenian Professionals Network (APN), which was established at the Western Diocese in 2004.  The Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Guy Chookoorian, born on November 15, 1923, served in the U.S. Army Air Corps, and in 1944 he was assigned to a bomber crew and flew 32 bombing missions.  As I heard his story, it gave me chills down my spine.  I thought, someone courageous enough to fight for their country should be recognized as a national hero.  Following his speech, a group of ROTC students from Cleveland High School performed the Presentation of Colors, led by Sergeant Sullivan.  This was a very inspirational performance, causing some of the guests to shed a tear.

Remembering the noble Veterans, the atmosphere became heavy-hearted.  in unison we all sang the Star Spangled Banner and Mer Hayrenik, the national anthems of the United States and of the Republic of Armenia, which made me realize something very important.  We are all one.  No matter what shape and size, color or nationality, we are all a part of one race.  The human race, one unit, one family, one world. 

Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Ms. Nancy Eskijian,the daughter of the founder of the Eskijian Museum, delivered an invocation and a very inspiring speech.  Hearing her speak about her father, Luther Eskijian, and his great accomplishments, I was very moved.  Coming from Syria and rebuilding a life in the United States was not an easy task.  "We come in unity to honor [the veterans]," stated Ms. Eskijian.  "I have great respect and admiration for each of you," she added.  Next at the podium was native Californian, Nikki Campbell-Smith.  As an active member of WIMSA (Women in Military Service of America), she spoke of how the military has altered her life.  "In Washington, DC, a city of monuments, WIMSA has added dignity [to our community]," she proclaimed. 

As my eyes looked over the crowd, I noticed how attentive each guest was to the speakers.  You could hear a pin drop in the Chapel.  Everyone was giving the speakers and the past Veterans the reverence one would give to a priest at the altar.  Even though reminiscing about war cannot be easy, the love, compassion, and dedication in each Veteran's eyes were evident.  The recognition that each Veteran received was grand but cannot be compared to what they truly deserve.  After hearing Lieutenant Colonel William Joseph Ryland speak, the American Flag holds new meaning for me.  Dressed like George Washington, he spoke with passion about our American Flag, aka "Old Glory", declaiming what the flag would say if it were human.  His personification of the flag's speech was this: "[The Veterans'] blood is in my red stripes.  Their purity is reflected in my white stripes.  Their souls are represented by my stars, and their courage is embedded in my blue."

After the Lieutenant's stirring monologue, Captain Leo Keligian spoke.  Starting in just the twelfth grade, Captain Keligian has been a part of the Coast Guard, Navy Seals, and the United States Army.  During World War II, he participated in the war in the Pacific Theatre, and was active from the South Pacific to Japan.  After World War II concluded, he was sent to the U.S. Army and promoted to Captain.  He was on active duty during the Korean War, and six years later during the Berlin Crisis.  In 1983, he was redeployed with only four hours' notice.  He did not return back home for three long, exhausting years.  Captain Keligian is one of the most inspirational Veterans I have ever met.  My eyes kept reverting back to his olive green coat, which was decorated and adorned with many medals.  But what made him noteworthy were not the medals, but his humility. 

Council members from the City of Los Angeles, Ms. Wendy Gruell and Mr. Dennis Zine, and from the City of Burbank, Dr. David Gordon, presented certificates to the event organizers. In an eloquent closing speech, the President of APN, Mr. Arthur H. Zabounian, asked each Veteran to stand as his or her name was called.  The chapel was charged with pride and patriotism.  I found myself thinking about Veterans ...ordinary people who showed courage, loyalty, and commitment to this country when faced with extraordinary circumstances.   In retrospect, I'm glad I attended.  "What's a fifteen year old girl doing at a gathering of 80 year olds?"  Learning, growing, and appreciating our parents and forebears for fighting for freedom.  God bless the USA!