Overview:
Palau Veterans Association members honored the nation’s fallen heroes over the weekend with a flag-planting activity across eight states, a growing annual tradition aimed at raising awareness of Palau’s servicemen and women and their lasting contributions.
By: Summer Kennard
Koror, Palau — Members of the Palau Veterans Association, joined by 10 visiting members from CAT 84-10, carried out a flag-planting activity over the weekend to honor Palauan veterans who have passed away.
Five local members took part in the initiative: Byron Napoleon, Greg Ngirmang, Norbert Yano, Joe Ngiramur, and one additional member whose name was not immediately available.
On Saturday, Nov. 9, the group visited cemeteries across eight states — Aimeliik, Ngardmau, Ngarchelong, Ngaraard, Airai, Ngchesar, Melekeok, and Koror — placing flags on the graves of veterans in recognition of Veterans Day. Despite cloudy skies and heavy rain during their journey, members said the rain stopped each time they arrived at a site, calling it a meaningful coincidence.
Now in its second year, the initiative aims to raise awareness of Palau’s veterans and the importance of honoring their service.
On Sunday, the association hosted a small barbecue at KB Bridge for veterans and their families to continue the spirit of remembrance and fellowship. The group plans to visit Peleliu on Tuesday to complete the remaining flag placements.
The effort was organized voluntarily, without official sponsorship or government funding. Byron said the association hopes to establish the flag-planting as an annual tradition, inspired by the long-standing observances at U.S. military cemeteries such as Arlington National Cemetery.
“This is still growing here in Palau,” Byron said. “There’s not much awareness yet, but that’s what we want to change. We also hope that the young Palauans currently serving in the military will continue this tradition when they return home.”
Byron added that many families of veterans attended the flag-planting events, creating a powerful sense of community and remembrance. Beyond honoring the fallen, the association hopes to promote broader recognition of Palau’s servicemen and women — both past and present — who have dedicated part of their lives to military service.