GLASGOW REMEMBERS

The annual Memorial Day ceremony at the Glasgow Civic Center on Monday was well-attended, despite continuous showers that prevented the placement of hundreds of flags at Highland Cemetery.

The Glasgow High School band played “The Star-Spangled Banner” and the colors were presented. The EQ Singers performed three selections, including a salute to the Unknown Soldier. Wreaths were laid at the foot of the American flag by Gerald Myers, commander of VFW Post 3107, Mary Sugg, president of the VFW Auxiliary, Joe Yeoman, representing American Legion Post 41, and Rene Clampitt, representing the Legion Auxiliary.

The guest speaker was Dr. Walter Smith, the radiologist at Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital. He traced the history of Memorial Day from its origins in 1865, when it was called Decoration Day, because people brought flowers to the graves of the many Civil War dead. He noted that it was celebrated on May 30 for many years, until in 1971 Congress changed the date to be the last Monday in May. He seemed to agree with a protest made by the VFW that Congress had created a three-day weekend that undermines the meaning of the observance, making it into just the first weekend of summer.

“Let us pause and reflect on those who have gone before us and given the ultimate sacrifice, that we may enjoy this country,” Smith said.

After the band played the “Armed Forces Medley” and the EQs sang “America,” Brad Persinger closed the ceremony with a clear trumpet solo of “Taps.”

The VFW’s Myers was the master of ceremonies on Monday. American Legion Chaplain Jason Myers delivered the invocation and benediction.

The VFW and Legion Auxiliaries presented a potluck dinner at the VFW after the ceremony.