Memorial Day in Belleau Wood with Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen James Amos
Channel: Devil Dog
Date: 27/05/2014

United States Marines and their French counterparts gathered at Aisne-Marne American Cemetery May 25, 2014 to celebrate Memorial Day, and to mark the 96th anniversary of the historic Battle of Belleau Wood. The event was held in the memorial cemetery which lies adjacent to the historic grounds of Belleau Wood and featured the laying of wreathes, a firing of volleys, the playing of "TAPS," raising of the American and French national colors, and a concert by the French and Marine Corps military bands. The mayor of the village of Belleau along with other military officers and officials representing the U.S. and France were present along with hundreds of locals and visitors from around the world. Participating units from the U.S. Marines included 5th Marine Regiment, the Wounded Warrior Regiment and Marine Forces Europe and Africa. French units that participated in the ceremony included the 21st Marine Infantry Regiment and the Musique Principale des Troupes de Marines. Includes sound bites from Marine Corps Commandant, Gen. James Amos. Video includes:  A Marine and his family help prepare the cemetery on Saturday by placing flags in front of every grave marker.  The ceremony included U.S. and French bands a drill platoon, messages were delivered by General Bertrand RACT-MADOUX, Chief of Staff of the French Army, General James F. Amos, Commandant of the Marine Corps, Mrs. Nadia Capapart, Mayor of Belleau, France, local school students and Mr. David Atkinson, cemetery superintendent.  The Master of Ceremony was Dr. Steven Ekovich, AOMDA, Professor at the American University of Paris.  Video by Master Sgt. Chad McMeen.  Watch in high definition and download for free here:

http://www.dvidshub.net/video/339376/belleau-wood-memorial-ceremony#.U4UkLJRdXOU

This video is from the Department of Defense and as such is in the public domain. Any copying, editing or reproduction is authorized and encouraged.