VFW and American Legion Host Memorial Day Parade

After a busy morning beneath the clouds and spring rain, the American Legion began the weekend honoring our deceased by placing flags at the headstones of Veterans buried in the Malta Cemetery. The volunteers showed up at 8 a.m. and by 9:30 a.m. the mission was accomplished. In addition to the American Legion members, VFW members, VFW Auxiliary members, American Legion Auxiliary Sons of the Legion, and Cub Scout troops pitched in on the community service effort.

Monday with a slight breeze gently blowing the red, white and blue of our nation's flag, the annual Memorial Day Parade was led by the Phillips County Sheriff's Office, with flag bearers of the military organizations next in line.

Mellissa Sandvick was an honored guest, she is the only Gold Star Mother in the county.

Each bearing a flag, Morgan and Maddy McEwen gracefully and proudly displayed the flag their grandpa, Bill McEwen, fought to protect.

The ladies of the Auxiliaries rode on a float they had prepared over the last weeks. The military men and SONS rode behind them.

The Border Patrol, Fire Department, individuals and the Ambulance joined in the festivities.

Vince Schmoeckel gave a welcome at the ceremony which followed, and also recognized Freddie Allery, who is the son of the last of the WWII veterans. Rick Mikkelson had the honor of being the guest speaker for the event.

While Don Klinko provided a reading on the 13 folds of the flag, Ken Wiederrick and Hector Murdock diligently folded the flag.

Mellissa Sandvick was recognized as the Gold Star Mother and presented with an arrangement of roses.

Under the direction of Service Officer Jay Southwick, the guns were fired into the silent clouds and Gary Faydo played taps before the audience.

Following grace by Orvin Solberg, Jim Layton read the names of the veterans who lost their lives in the wars. After each war list was read, a single tap was made on a gold bell in reverence to the men and women we have lost to the hands of war. Layton then explained the table setting known as the missing man table and the symbolism – for those that still await the return of their loved one.

At the VFW Club, the Sons of the American Legion BBQ'd burgers and hot dogs for the lunch provided by the Auxiliaries. A nice crowd was in attendance for the services. The kids along the parade route enjoyed the candy that was tossed by parade participants.

It is true, all gave some...some gave all. The day was ideal for reflecting on our freedom and the sacrifice that many gave. The service gave meaning and depth to the saying..."more than a name on the wall."