Dan Carlson of Carson Memorials helps cemetery director Dick Gigliotti (behind the stone) with the unveiling the new World War II memorial during Sunday’s dedication ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado.

A group of World War II veterans representing the different branches of the military and each of the five Western Slope Honor Flights present a memorial wreath during the unveiling of the World War II memorial during Sunday’s dedication ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado.

The crowd pays its respect as the flag is retired at the end of the ceremony.

About 400 people gather on a stormy afternoon at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado for the unveiling and dedication of the World War II memorial.

Piper Sean Taylor of the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division plays “Amazing Grace.”

Capt. Mike Masters of the U.S. Utah Army National Guard speaks at the dedication.

Honor Flight board member Duncan Brown points to Kris Baugh as she is recognized for all her work on the five Honor Flights.

Kevin Wodlinger, founder of the Western Slope Honor Flight, was the Master of Ceremonies.

An attendee uses his program to protect himself during one of two downpours that occurred during and immediately following the ceremony.

Dr. Carl Wahlberg buries his face in his shoulder as he is overcome with emotion talking about his experiences on one of the Honor Flights during his closing reflections at the dedication ceremony.

U.S. Navy veteran Clint Miller plays taps at the end of the dedication ceremony.

Th Grand junction Police Chief’s Honor Guard waits to retire the colors.