Durango-area residents remembered fallen service members in several ceremonies Monday on Memorial Day.
A Vietnam Veterans Remembrance Ceremony was held at Iris Park, where Brian McAleer spoke of the loved ones who were lost in past wars.
He said Memorial Day always makes him think of his own father, who served in World War II.
“I think of all the families who have lost loved ones, the young who were not able to fulfill their ambitions and dreams,” McAleer said.
He said Memorial Day is a time to reflect on democracy.
“We must always remember we are a democracy. Let’s become more democratic and less autocratic,” he said.
The mood was solemn as Vietnam veterans performed a 21-gun salute.
“I see all these people here who are survivors. They carry with them a reminder of their service – injuries we might not be able to see, but they gave a part of their life,” said Lisa Ray, one of about 50 people in attendance.
“We don’t realize that people who serve in the military do so unselfishly,” Ray said.
Another ceremony honoring Veterans of Foreign Wars was held in the afternoon at Greenmount Cemetery, where veterans spoke about the need to carefully weigh any decision to send troops into harm’s way.
The commander of American Legion Post 28, David Latham, reflected on the symbolism of the day, likening the season’s new blooms to a “living tribute.” He explained the tradition of raising the flag to full staff before lowering it to half-staff until noon in honor of the nation’s fallen service members, then returning it to full staff as a promise by the living to carry on the cause of liberty.
He said those who serve are “ordinary people who, by virtue of their service and sacrifice, became extraordinary,” and warned that decisions to send men and women into combat should never be made lightly.
One speaker said every person who puts on a military uniform effectively signs a “blank check payable up to and including their life,” urging those at home to support both today’s service members and the families of the fallen.
Latham said that while it is acceptable to say “Happy Memorial Day,” he prefers the phrase, “Have a memorable Memorial Day,” because the holiday is ultimately about remembering the men and women who are no longer here.
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