It’s a long way up that flag pole! Boy Scout Sebastien Lopez, at left, and Cub Scout Angel Gonzalez keep their eye on the American flag as they hoist up the stars and stripes during Monday’s Memorial Day service at Holyoke Cemetery. Other Cub Scouts on hand for the flag raising were Andres Bencomo, Sylvester Jones and Ryan Chaney. — Johnson Publications
Memorial Day tribute is a tall order for some
While Memorial Day can mean barbecues, parades and a day off work for many Americans, it’s so much more than that. It’s a time to recognize those who have given the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country, and sometimes it’s hard to even describe that gratitude.
A crowd of men, women and children showed their respect for lives lost in both word and action Monday, May 28, at the annual Memorial Day service at Holyoke Cemetery.
The American flag was flying overhead, thanks to the help of Boy Scout Sebastien Lopez and Cub Scout Angel Gonzalez. Also assisting with the flag-raising ceremony were Cub Scouts Andres Bencomo, Sylvester Jones and Ryan Chaney.
Terry Barth, commander of VFW Post 6482 and adjutant of American Legion Post 90, with the help of Larry Abbey, read the memorial honor roll, giving recognition to the veterans who are buried at Holyoke Cemetery.
Susan Roll Walter and Lynne Ferguson of the American Legion Ladies Auxillary honored the dead by placing memorial wreaths at the front of the stage, and special music by Marcia Dalton and Emily Krogmeier helped express the feelings of the heart that words could not say.
“All families sacrificed during times of conflict,” said guest speaker Bob Russell, who served in the United States Air Force. Memorial Day is about more than just those who lost their lives because war affects everyone.
For example, during World War II, “America was fully behind the war effort,” he said. “Everyone pitched in.”
“It would be marvelous if we could stop having wars,” but the world is divided on so many issues, said Russell.
He emphasized how important it is for the armed forces to have up-to-date equipment. “Not preparing for conflicts would be negligent on our part,” he said. “Be mindful that the world is an unstable place.”
Russell concluded saying he’s grateful there are bright, dedicated people who continue to work side by side in America’s military units.
The Memorial Day service ended with the honor guard salute and taps played by Eli Meakins.