Story, Photos & Video by Don Backman
Flags flew at each gravesite, fluttering in the northwest wind. People slowly searched about the graves, looking for a relative, a friend, a loved one. Slowly, the group gathered in front of the tent area sheltering the presenters from the sun.
The Boy Scout honor guard from troop 582 raised the flag. A Pledge of Allegiance was made, and Heather Phillips performed a strong rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner.
Memorial Day is more than a three-day weekend. We’ve all seen the memes on social media. Memorial Day is the one holiday dedicated to honoring those lost in service to the country. Colonel William Hatton, USMC, Ret. reviewed the history of Memorial Day, and how it honors all those who fought and fell.
Every year, Memorial Day ceremonies take place through the entire country. I recommend that you go, if you haven’t been. It’s a sobering experience. The picnics can come afterwards.
Linton Whittles, USMC, ’67 to ’70, shared his personal history of three who he knew in Vietnam. He told their story to honor their service and sacrifice. He also told their stories to respond to the three young… I hesitate to use the word men when speaking of those who called him and other servicemen like my own brothers a “Baby Killer” when they arrived back home. Wittles powerful words are well worth hearing in person.
The veterans of each service were honored by playing their service anthems. The veterans stood at attention, some on their own, some with the help of others to steady them.
A prayer was said, and the names of those veterans in Tillamook County who passed on in the last year were read out. The hauntingly sad tones of taps played by Russell Zaugg, US Army, Army National Guard, ’93 – ’08 slowly faded away, leaving the entire hill in silence.
Memorial Day is the one day dedicated to honoring those who fell. We can, we should, we must honor them. “We Must Not Forget.”
See you out there next year. There’s plenty of room. Bring a chair.