Veterans of Foreign Wars Commander Terry Randolph reminded those gathered at Forest Hill Cemetery Sunday that Memorial Day is a solemn occasion to remember veterans who have died.
Besides the occasional springtime whisper of a passing mosquito, the cemetery field was hushed as Randolph described the meaning behind the holiday; chaplain Wayne Sampson led the group in prayer and LeRoy Belanger read the names of 80 local veterans who died during the past year.
In keeping with tradition, Margarete Kostiuk sang “Sleep Soldier Boy,” but the audience was asked to hold their applause in honor of the reverent ceremony.
Wreaths representing those who died in each of the armed conflicts were presented by members of the VFW.
Firing rifles followed by the echoed rendition of “Taps” on trumpets closed the brief ceremony held each year at cemeteries around the area. The VFW was joined by the Canadian Legion. The VFW visited Ray, Kabetogama, Ericsburg and International Falls cemeteries Sunday.
On Saturday, the VFW was joined by Boy Scouts at Forest Hill Cemetery, where flags were stuck in the ground near the grave sites of deceased veterans. The abundant American flags waved gently as a reminder of those who have died in service to the country.
Memorial Day began in 1865 to remember fallen Civil War soldiers. It eventually came to include veterans of all branches of the armed services who have died.
Besides the obvious significance, the U.S. federal holiday held each year on the last Sunday in May is often seen as the kickoff to summer, as schools typically end around the holiday weekend and families enjoy barbecues and outdoor get-togethers on the long weekend. The Indianapolis 500 auto race has also run on that date for 100 years.
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