Memorial Day holds Significance for Deer Valley Composite Squadron 302 Cadet

By: Lt Matthew Costabile, Assistant Public Affairs Officer for Cadet Activities, Arizona Wing

Memorial Day services at the National Memorial Cemetery of Phoenix held a special significance for C/Amn Cody Cassano of Deer Valley Squadron 302. Just over two years ago, Cadet Cassano's uncle, Sgt David Mumford (ret.) was laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery after being killed by a drunk driver while riding his motorcycle in suburban Phoenix.

Following Memorial Day Ceremonies, Cadets of the Deer Valley Squadron 302 Color Guard presented the colors over Sgt Mumford’s gravestone, accompanied by C/Amn Cody Cassano and his father SM Paul Cassano. "He was my brother in law, my friend and my son's uncle" said SM Paul Cassano, who is the Orientation and Retention Officer for Squadron 302. "It meant a lot to have him recognized by our Squadron Color Guard who took the moment to share in the grief we still feel at having lost a fine man and soldier."