Solomons, MD – The tradition of honoring military veterans of the past continued Sunday, Nov. 9 at a familiar bronze statue overlooking Solomons Harbor. The On Watch Memorial Service additionally demonstrates support for the men and women currently serving in the Armed Forces.

The audience, which included veterans and their families, was greeted by Capt. Heidi Fleming, the commander of Patuxent River Naval Air Station (NAS Pax). The base’s honor guard presented the colors and the Star Spangled Banner was sung by Casey Garner.

“You are the foundation on what this nation is today,” Fleming told the veterans in attendance. “You rose to the occasion.”

The guest speaker was retired Navy Admiral Steve Abbot, a Calvert County resident who is currently president and CEO of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. The Arlington, VA-based organization provides financial assistance and education plus other programs and services to members of the Navy and Marine Corps, and also aids eligible family members, widows and survivors. The organization’s mission is accomplished through the receipt and management of donated funds.

Abbot first resided in the Solomons area during the mid-1970s while stationed at NAS Pax. He recalled it was prior to the Gov. Thomas Johnson Bridge being built and he used to travel from home to the base in a boat previously owned by his wife’s family.

“I’m glad to be back,” said Abbot. “I admire the people and the lifestyle.”

The On Watch statue was conceived as a way to remind residents and visitors of the important role the Solomons area played during World War II. The U.S. Amphibious Training Base in Solomons was in operation from 1942 to 1945. It was the first of its kind in the United States.

The bronze statue is the work of artist Antonio “Toby” Mendez. The statue was dedicated in August 2007.

Of the men and women who served during World War II, Abbot said the statue “is a testimony to them.”

The On Watch statue ceremony is sponsored by the Calvert County Commissioners and is facilitated by the staff and volunteers of Calvert Marine Museum (CMM).

“We [CMM} have a long history of doing this [honoring veterans],” said CMM Board of Governors Member Bruce Newell, himself a Navy veteran. In addition to previously hosting several events dubbed “The Cradle of Invasion,” CMM has, for several years, sent care packages to members of the Armed Forces stationed overseas. “They still appreciate it,” said Newell.

Calvert County Commissioners’ President Pat Nutter also addressed the audience, sharing memories of his younger brother Jackie and his father, both military veterans.

Two veterans—former state senator Bernie Fowler and Solomons resident Vernon Garner, a retired Air Force colonel—conducted the concluding wreath laying ceremony.

Other attendees included Delegate Tony O’Donnell, State Senator-Elect Steven Waugh, County Commissioner Evan Slaughenhoupt and former county commissioner Linda Kelley.

The On Watch statue stands at the end of Dowell Road. For more information about CMM visit www.calvertmarinemuseum.org

Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com