Mercer-Prieto VFW Post 2043 Memorial Day observance Monday

Col. Hess had a 33-year military career, including seven years in the Navy and 26 years as a commissioned officer and aviator in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was also a fighter weapons systems project officer and was Commanding Officer of the Marine Aviation Detachment.A fighter pilot in the Vietnam War, he flew 221 combat missions in support of military ground operations. Col. Hess’ decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal and Air Medal, among others.During the Memorial Day observance the traditional Placing of the Wreaths, marking the sacrifices of those who lost their lives over generations of war, will be followed by a salute to departed comrades by the Mercer-Prieto VFW Post 2043 and Korean War Veterans Post 56 Rifle Squad. Bugler Sammy Solace will play the poignant “Taps” to close the program.Mercer-Prieto VFW Post 2043 has staged the Memorial Day program for decades; the observance draws hundreds of people to Santa Paula Cemetery, which is decorated with American flags for the short patriotic ceremony. This year the program is being co-sponsored by Pierce Brothers Stetler Santa Paula Cemetery.