By Cole Wimberly
A Memorial Day service was held in the Veterans Section of Hillcrest Memorial Park honoring past, present, and fallen soldiers.
The ceremony began with a Posting of the American Flag colors. Following the flag colors, Morgan Isaiah sang the national Anthem, then the Scouts of America led the Pledge of Allegiance. Opening prayer and remarks were made, then a flag folding ceremony happened with an explanation of the 13 folds.
“After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat. Reminding us of soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the sailors and marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones in the colonial armed forces. Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, and all US military services have all served under this flag.”
The Wreath laying ceremony had many wreaths from different co-host organizations placed on the sacred veteran’s shrine, honoring the fallen soldiers.
The keynote speaker was Robert Shehorn, US Navy Veteran Commander, VFW District 13 President, and Veterans Assistance Commission of Marion County.
“Let every deed and act of each of our days be guided by the memory of those who gave their lives for our future freedoms. May their sacrifices continue to inspire us and give us hope,” Shehorn told the crowd.
Isaiah then sang “God Bless America” and “The Lord’s Prayer”. She was followed by the Benediction, and the Three Volley Salute with the Honor Guard. The conclusion of the ceremony came with the Sounding of Taps.
The Ceremony could not have happened without Mike and Judy Sutherland making the Veterans Section of Hillcrest Park available for the service. The Sutherland family placed small American flags on each fallen veteran’s grave stones. Mike Sutherland also gave the welcome speech for the ceremony.
A Howitzer was on display with the Sounding of taps player, Don Beaty, at its post.
