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 The services at the Mount Pulaski Cemetery included the laying of
wreaths around the monument as well as the "What Memorial Day Means
to Me" speeches by contest winners Emma Buenrostro and Kamryn
Aylesworth.
Retired Master Sergeant of the United States Air Force, Chuck McCue,
was the keynote speaker. He mentioned how he walked the cemetery in
search of all veterans and put together a list of wars in which
those had served and given their lives. He mentioned how he had even
found a grave belonging to a soldier from the Spanish American War.
McCue noted how every little flag throughout the cemetery
represented sacrifice. "There is something about the military that
makes you grow up faster," he said.
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"Military service comes with great rewards and a series of risks," he observed
as he reminded us of those killed not just in combat, he also recounted stories
of servicemen and women killed in non-combat missions. For example, he spoke of
the six Marines killed in the helicopter crash over Nepal recently who were
delivering supplies to the earthquake-stricken country. "These Marines were
trained warriors but they lost their lives in a noble endeavor to save lives,
not to take lives," he said, as he then began to name those killed and ended
with a "Rest in Peace."
Finally he told the crowd to "please keep these families in your thoughts as
they gather on this Memorial Day." His speech served as a solemn reminder of
those who not only died preserving our freedom, but also died while helping
others. Thanks to all the veterans on this Memorial Day.
[Teena Lowery]
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