Bothell Landing Veterans Day ceremony honors fallen soldiers — two from this year

Some cried and others smiled, but the people who showed up at the Park at Bothell Landing last Saturday all had one thing in common: love and respect for the brave veterans who served their country.

Two soldiers in particular, Bothell’s Nicholas Madrazo and Jason Bogar — both killed in Afghanistan this year — were on the minds of the 50 people who attended the Veterans Day memorial event. The rain couldn’t keep them away.

Two bricks in their honor were added to the memorial by American Legion Post 127 and the city of Bothell.

“It is never easy to lose a loved one, and the passing of both these young men has saddened many hearts,” Bothell Deputy Mayor Sandy Guinn told the crowd.

“Not only will these brave men be mourned by their family, but our community grieves for their loss, as well.”

Members of Madrazo’s family were on hand to receive a Gold Star Banner, and friends of the Bothell High graduate placed miniature flags and a rose on his brick. Tears were shed and hugs were aplenty.

Post Commander Burt Marsh stepped to the podium following the parade of colors, which saw members of the 380th Reserve Battalion Honor Guard, Bothell Police Department, Post 127 and Boy Scout Troop 356 march across the bridge and into the park to the song “God Bless the USA.”

“We’re going to make a tradition of honoring our veterans in our community,” he said of the inaugural event.

Added Guinn: “It is their determination, skills and American spirit that rings loudly in times of need.”

After the half-hour ceremony, scouts checked out the memorial, which Troop 356 built in 2002.

Scoutmaster Pat Bush proudly looked on and said: “This is our legacy. This is part of the Bothell community — forever.”