Community pays honor to those lost
(Photo by TONIA BROOKS) Monday's Memorial Day tribute attracted many local residents who wanted to pay their respects to those who gave their lives in service to their country.
(Photo by TONIA BROOKS) Monday's Memorial Day tribute drew a strong crowd to honor those who gave their lives in service to their country.
(Photo by TONIA BROOKS) Local residents stand at attention during Monday's Memorial Day tribute.
(Photo by TONIA BROOKS) The fallen soldier battle cross — made up of a rifle stuck into the ground or soldier's boots, with helmet on top, along with dog tags are sometimes placed on the rifle — shows show honor and respect for the dead.
BONNERS FERRY — This year’s Memorial Day in Bonners Ferry was smaller than the past gatherings, but equally as important and rich in tradition.
Community members met at the Grandview Cemetery at 10 a.m. Monday morning to find beautifully kept grounds with an abundance of freshly placed flowers and plants.
The invocation was said to a crowd of around 60 or so people who gathered in the newer area of the cemetery.
The honorary salute was fired by three marksmen. Ron McIlnay, a US Air Force veteran, played Taps for the crowd.
Manny Figueroa, the commander of American Legion Post 55, recited a short speech.
“As you look around this sacred ground, and throughout thousands of cemeteries across this nation, you see their legacy; that legacy is us,” said Figueroa. “Americans gather in a free society unified with the common purpose of honoring uncommon bravery.” Everyone agreed with the common theme of the ceremony that it was necessary to gather to honor the lives lost and the ultimate sacrifice of young men and women in all branches of service.
