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Jon Peterson, commander of Legion Post 206, addressed attendees at Monday’s Memorial Day observance at the Elsie Cemetery.

Legion Post 206 holds Memorial Day service

While many Memorial Day observances fell victim to COVID-19, Elsie Legion Post 206 held an abbreviated ceremony at the Elsie Cemetery Monday. 

Post Commander Jon Peterson opened the ceremony with a greeting about honoring, recognizing and praying for America’s brave who sacrificed for country, community, friends and family.

He followed with a tribute to veterans, auxiliary members and first responders. Peterson noted the American flag has been at half-mast over the last few days to honor those who have lost their lives to COVID-19.

Monday, though, the flag was at half-mast, as it is every Memorial Day, to honor fallen soldiers and first responders.

Peterson then read the following prayer: “Almighty God, we thank Thee for this country and Thy guidance in hour of peril and Thy tender love in times of need. Help us remember the sacrifice in blood for our country and freedoms. Help us to cherish the life we now have here and place upon our hearts the desire to serve others, to continue in devotion to You and to stand for the ideas fought for. Keep us steadfastness in the cause of human rights, sanctity of life, inalienable liberties, defense of law and order and to stand for truth and integrity. Amen.”

Following the prayer was Peterson’s speech to attendees, regarding the ongoing pandemic, sacrifice and service.

“As we watch the news and hear from friends and family through Facebook and other social  media, we cannot miss the crisis around the world and around us,” Peterson began. “We know the COVID-19 plague is near, and not too far down road. How can we not be concerned, or worried or even fearful?”

Peterson then highlighted the service and sacrifices of veterans, service members, first responders, healthcare providers and other essential workers noting their dedication to serve.

“Their sacrifice has been and is greater than any concern over rain, crops and COVID-19,” he said. “Their choices to serve are of the heart. And with that same heart, let us respect and encourage store clerks, truck drivers, drive-through servers, postal and delivery workers and all those who keep things going.”

Peterson finished his speech by encouraging people to be gracious even though things aren’t what they used to be, since some things will never return to “normal.”

“It is this service and sacrifice we honor today. Their service shows us how hope and determination overcomes crisis. So today, remember them and let us renew our loyalty to a higher purpose,” Peterson said, concluding his address.

Steve Hanson then read a roll call of departed service members who are buried in Elsie’s cemetery, followed by “Taps” played by Makayla DaMoude of Omaha. Attendees then shared a one-minute moment of silence.

Peterson thanked DaMoude for Taps, saying “how sweet the sound it makes in our hearts.” He thanked the Ken Potts family for setting out the stars and flags and other volunteers who helped with preparations.

“In closing, let us commit to do right and encourage others to do the same,” Peterson said.

 

The Grant Tribune-Sentinel

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