Memorial Day was observed in Emery County with a number of programs at local cemeteries. The Huntington American Legion started their morning of observations in Elmo. Commander Ray Quinn organized the program and welcomed everyone to the cemetery. “We are here to honor those who gave all so we could be here today. It is a sacred day. Chaplain Owen Olsen offered the prayer. Commander Quinn read the dedication to the fallen comrades. Jennie Olson read the poem on Flanders Field.
Blake Jones accompanied by Eldon Holmes recited the Ragged Old Flag. Jones said, “I am grateful for the service of the Veterans. I am thrilled to recite the Ragged Old Flag accompanied by my good friend Eldon Holmes. It is great to honor this country and the flag that flies over it. We honor those Veterans who have gone before and those who are still in conflict and fighting.”
The color guard presented the colors and a 21 gun salute echoed throughout the cemetery. This ceremony was presented in Cleveland next followed by Lawrence and then concluding in Huntington. In Huntington, essays were read by local youth council members to honor Veterans reflecting on the fact that freedom isn’t free.
Mayor Hilary Gordon thanked those involved with getting the cemetery ready for Memorial Day. “The cemetery looks good and the Memorial Park. Our Veterans fought for our freedoms. We need to be mindful of everyone and for those who don’t have all that we do. This is a day to pause and reflect upon those who have gone before.”
Commander Quinn said, Memorial Day observances are held to deepen the reverence for those who have gone before.
The Ferron American Legion Unit hosted ceremonies in Molen, Ferron and concluded in Castle Dale.
The American Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic, war-time veterans organization, devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is a not-for-profit community-service organization which now numbers nearly 3 million members, men and women, in nearly 15,000 American Legion posts worldwide.
County observes Memorial Day: Local American Legion units host ceremonies at local cemeteries
"The Ferron American Legion presents a program on Memorial Day at the Castle Dale Cemetery. Perk Allred and Ramal Jones participate in the 21 gun salute and Bryce Syndergaard plays taps."