Veterans honored on Memorial Day

In the aftermath of the war in Iraq, Memorial Day?s significance is refreshed in the minds of Americans. Some have lost friends and family in Iraq and many others have their loved ones overseas bringing law and order to that country and to extinguish terrorism in other areas of the world.

Onaway Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5857 conducted its annual memorial service at Onaway Courthouse Monday, after marching from their post to the front lawn of the courthouse, in remembrance of fallen comrades.

Bob Wilton, post commander, directed the program this year. Wilton introduced Marge Skinner to sing the national anthem. Next was the Methodist Church Sunday School Choir singing ?My Country Tis of Thee? directed by Carol Post.

?What do I call them, thank you little ones who sang,? said Wilton. Following them was the Onaway junior high band performing ?Proud to be an American? conducted by Larry Shaffer.

?I want to thank each and every one of you, it wa

s beautiful. And I thought I saw a slight smile on the eagle?s face,? said Wilton. Carol?s choir sang ?God Bless America? and ?America the Beautiful,? directed by Carol Post. ?Ladies, those songs were beautiful. The first one brought tears to my eyes,? said Wilton.

?Memorial Day Prayer? was given by Ray Roberson, commander-elect. VFW officers paid their respects to fallen soldiers by placing symbols, in a grave representing those fallen soldiers. The symbol of a piece of greenery represents remembrance. A white flower-purity. A red flower, meaning blood loss given in war, and the American flag-our country.

A salute from VFW members with rifles was fired, followed by ?Taps? played for the fallen. The program ended by Wilton leading the spectators in the ?Pledge of Allegiance.?