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Marion County Sheriff Kevin Cripps says Memorial Day is important to remember the sacrifices made by those defending our country.

He was the guest speaker at the Memorial Day Ceremony in East Lawn Cemetery in Salem.

“It is important to remember that freedom is not free.  It is a true gift earned through sacrifice and hard work from our veterans.  On this day, we must remember the true cost of freedom and we must assure their sacrifices were not in vain.  We must live up to the legacy by promoting justice, equality, and freedom for all.  Let us honor their memory not just with words but with actions.”

Cripps also commended the work of the Salem American Legion Honor Guard at veteran funerals.

“They present a flag to his wife with great respect. I watched the gun salute as it went off.   I saw a member of the honor guard crying while they honored his fellow brother.  I was truely touched by this and I want to thank each and every member of that squad for the service that you do.”

Cripps says he initially asked the legion to find someone else to be the speaker because this was not something he felt comfortable doing, but after mulling it over, he decided he could certainly come up with five or ten minutes to remember the veterans who have given so much.

The ceremony included the posting of the colors, flag raising ceremony, National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, Armed Forces Medley Salute by the Little Egypt Brass, the placing of the Memorial Wreath by Senior Airman Emma Morris and her sister Sarah Morris, the Gun Salute by the American Legion Honor Guard and the playing of taps by Debbie Woodruff.

As in past years, small white crosses and US flags were displayed in the field in front of the Veterans Memorial.  More than 100 gathered for the event.

Members of the American Legion raise the flags of the Veterans Memorial in East Lawn Cemetery during Memorial Day program. Photo by Bruce Kropp.

 

Senior Airman Emma Morris and Sarah Morris place the Memorial Wreaths during the ceremony. Photo by Bruce Kropp.


The Little Egypt Brass Band plays the Armed Forces Medley Salute. Photo by Bruce Kropp.

 

Debbie Woodruff playing taps to conclude the 2025 Salem Memorial Day program. Photo by Bruce Kropp.