Dozens of color guards participate in Massing of the Colors

Dozens of color guard units gathered at St. Raphael Church Saturday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for the Massing of the Colors, a ceremony organized by the Military Order of the World Wars. According to the organizers, it’s all to promote a sense of patriotism and to cherish the memories and sacrifices of the world wars waged for humanity.

Color guard units from across the region participated in the ceremony, which dates back to 1922, meant to create love for our country and the American flag.

“They should do it every day – look at the American flag and say thank you, thank you, thank you,” U.S. Army veteran Raul Garibay said. “We live in the greatest country in the world and we should be very appreciative of that.”

Chapters of the Military Order of the World Wars are known for hosting ceremonies like these across America.