A U.S. Army Sergeant who served in Afghanistan and saw 18 members of the Illinois National Guard lose their lives, called Memorial Day a very emotional day where those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country should be remembered.
Sergeant Jennifer Gates served a total of eight years in the Army and one year in Afghanistan as a gunner.
“During my time in Afghanistan, I was injured and I felt defeated because I felt like things were coming to a halt for me in my mind. My goals. I was going to be a drill sergeant. Things I had planned. They were going to come to an abrupt end. I wake up every day and reminded that it didn’t end because I still get to wake up, while some of us don’t.”
Gates encouraged everyone to participate in Memorial Day.
“When you wake up Monday morning, if you are the praying kind, say a prayer for these families. A moment of silence for these families. That’s what Memorial Day really about. It’s not about your barbeques, cookouts, or hanging out at the lake,” said Gates.
Gates thanked each and every Veteran and if any family or friends were lost, her prayers and thoughts were with them.
The placement of the wreaths followed in front of the Pettinger Memorial by Centralia Mayor Bryan Kuder and City Councilman Jeff Castellari. The ceremony concluded with a 21 gun salute and the playing of taps.
US Army Sergeant Jennifer Gates delivered the Memorial Day message at Elmwood Cemetery in Centralia on Saturday. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
The Centralia VFW and American Legion along with the Boy Scouts present the Colors to start the Elmwood Cemetery Memorial Day Program. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
A 21 Gun Rifle Salute and the playing of Taps by Lowell Jeffries closes the program. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
