Murrieta opens Memorial Day at 8 AM sharp, making it one of the earliest and most earnest military observances in the region. The ceremony takes place at Town Square Park's outdoor amphitheater -- the civic heart of Murrieta -- organized by the city with participation from veterans organizations, local high school JROTC units, and community leaders. This year's keynote is delivered by retired USMC Sergeant Major Gerald Saunders Jr., with the national anthem and colors presented by Murrieta Valley High School's Marine Corps JROTC. Mayor Jon Levell will speak. The ceremony runs under 90 minutes with a wreath-laying, the playing of Taps, and a moment of silence. Murrieta is a …