Dear Editor:
Starke’s Memorial Day Service will be conducted at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 29, at Charlie Schaefer Veterans Memorial Park on East Call Street American Legion Post 56 veterans, Boy Scout Troop 70 of Starke and Bradford High School JROTC students.
Memorial Day is a national holiday in the United States for remembering those who died while serving in this country’s armed forces.
Memorial Day as officially proclaimed by Gen. John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, on May 5, 1868. It was first observed when flowers were placed upon the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. After World War 1, the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting any war.
Although all deceased service members did not die because of enemy action, they all served their country with courage and honor, and as an act of gratitude, are remembered by having an American Flag placed upon their gravesites in all our cemeteries.
Last week, I was approached by a student at Southside Elementary School with a question: “What is Memorial Day and why?” I explained the why and the ceremony that would be conducted. Children of this generation have no knowledge of this country’s history regarding the battles fought and the sacrifice by our fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters to preserve the freedom we share with one another in this great country.
The public is invited and encouraged to attend our ceremony and pay homage to all our local men and women who have served our country with honor and distinction.
Respectfully,
Raymond Hunt
Vice Commander
