Salem Mayor Nic Farley told those gathered at the Salem American Legion for the Memorial Day Service Monday that this wasn’t just a day off work, but a day to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to defend our freedom.
He says Memorial Day is a day for all American’s to stand up and say ‘thank you and we remember you, we are grateful to you’.
“It is important to recognize the service of our fallen military heroes and their service and the sacrifice of these individuals are never forgotten. We must keep their actions alive in our memories and in our hearts. Of the million-plus men and women who have died in our nation’s military service, the clear majority are everyday heroes. They left holes in their families and communities they left behind. We must honor their loved ones as well. the mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters.”
And Farley says there are others who are still missing.
“For some of our veterans, we are not able to fully able to pay our respects at a final resting place. There are still 82,000 military personnel missing in every conflict spanning back to World War II. We must never forget them or their families.”
Farley says he must also make sure to care for the wounded when they return home and remember that the brave military is our nation’s defense not just to raise a flag but to carry the torch of freedom forward.
The Little Egypt Brass Quintet provided the patriotic music, Legion Auxiliary President Janie Grimes placed the wreath, while the American Legion Honor Guard gave a rifle salute and Alan Phillips played taps to honor the deceased.
The Little Egypt Brass Quintet plays at the Memorial Day Program. Left to right: Alan Phillips, Diane Sechrest, Mike Musick, Hailey Robb, and Debbie Woodruff. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Salem American Legion Honor Guard presents the Rifle Salute to the Deceased. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
