Veterans Celebrate Memorial Day

Veterans

Jun 8

Jo-Ann Hussion - CRR Staff

Honor. Patriotism. Courage. Freedom. Sacrifice. Gratitude. Remembrance.

These are some of the heartfelt words I heard during speeches at four local Memorial Day Services. Words are powerful and words matter, and, as Americans, our right to free speech is a testimony to our fallen heroes and to those still with us dedicated to protecting our rights.

**Veteran saluting as rifle detail fires.** Photo by Jo-Ann Hussion

I met up with a group of local veterans from the VFW and the American Legion at 8:30 a.m. and went with them to the Glennallen Cemetery where a group of about 16, including six children attended the service. Vice Commander, Julie Sine (American Legion) and Acting Commander (VFW) Dana Becker led the service with heartfelt speeches.

Terry Keizer, American Legion Commander and U.S. Army veteran, carried the American flag, along with flag holder Clark Bronson (Navy) who carried a flag which stated, “You Will Not Be Forgotten.” Keizer led the command for the rifle detail to fire their rifles three times. The rifle detail included: Will Becker (Air Force), John Goates (Marines), Bob Frisbie (Marines) and, firing at the Glennallen ceremony, Lee Adler (branch not noted).

**Veterans carrying flags during the Memorial Day Ceremony.** Photo by Jo-Ann Hussion

The service ended with bugle master Greg Lee (Navy & Air Force) playing a recording of the somber and familiar notes of “Taps.” Following the Glennallen Cemetery service, the group went to Moose Creek where Dana Becker and his wife tossed a wreath into the current, symbolizing those soldiers lost at sea. A full service was performed here as well as at the Copper Valley lower and upper cemetery grounds where approximately 15 adults and children attended.

**Dana Becker and his wife tossed a wreath into Moose Creek.** Photo by Jo-Ann Hussion

I would personally like to thank this dedicated group of veterans for not only speaking words of remembrance, but also for living the true meaning of Memorial Day and for allowing me to join them for the morning.

The veterans I spoke with yesterday want the community to know that they are here to support and assist local veterans of any age with questions about benefits and any other concerns they may have. Additionally, these local organizers are looking for younger members to think about becoming active members of either organization in order to keep fighting for the important needs and issues of the veteran community.

Meetings are held at the American Legion on the first Wednesday of each month. To contact group leaders by phone for more information, call 907-822-3227.