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Photo courtesy of David Johnson
“From the American Revolution to the global war on terrorism, more than one million American veterans have made the Supreme Sacrifice,” said a somber American Legion Post 413 Commander Robert (Bob) Mattson. “They died so that we could continue to cherish things they loved, God, country, and family.
“That is why are gathered here on Memorial Day, to honor the memory of our fallen veterans who have given everything for their country.
Commander Mattson addressed a crowd of about 70 who listened to him speak at the Memorial Day service.
A hard rain and lightning forced the American Legion Post 413 to make a last-minute decision to abandon plans to host the Memorial Day Service on the courthouse lawn. Instead, the event shifted inside to the Birch Terrace Super Club where folks were going to gather to eat following the courthouse lawn service.
And despite the weather, the turnout was strong.
The service began at 11 a.m. with the American Legion Post 413 Honor Guard of Sue Westrerlind, Rodney Carlson, Rich Palmer, and Orvis Lunke presenting American flags. Post Commander Bob Mattson asked several members of the Cook County Choir to sing the National Anthem. Led by Choir Director Cindy Johnson, Gabby Grinelle, Tori Pringle, and first grader Soren Wahlstrom, the young ladies did an excellent job singing.
A prayer of thanks for those who sacrificed their lives for our country came from Pastor EvaLyn Carlson. EvaLyn also called for peace.
Mattson continued his remarks. “Not only are these diverse men and women forever young in our hearts, but for those who knew them, they are forever young. They came from every background, yet they shared a common goal-to serve America and make life better for others.”
Later, Mattson exclaimed, “In reflecting on the sacrifices of their comrade during World War 1, the founders of the American Legion saw four common pillars as to why Americans so often answer their nation’s call—even to the point of sacrificing their lives.
Jonah Schmidt playing taps at the Memorial Day service.
1) They do it to provide a strong national defense-to keep America safe and secure against those enemies who would destroy our American way of life.
2) They do it for their fellow comrades… for those fighting by their side against all odds and for those who eventually separate from the military but proudly claim their status as veterans.
3) They do it for American core values of God and country-family, patriotism, and our freedom to worship as we please.
4) They do it for their children…so that they can grow up in an America that is strong and free.
“It is through that last pillar-children-that we must continue to honor the spirit of these veterans. We must share the legacies and tell stories of those who are no longer here, so that the younger generations remain aware of the sacrifices that have been made for them.
“It is also why we wear the Poppy, a symbol of hope that sprouted on a Belgium battlefield.
“Memorial Day is not about picnics and parade— though there is nothing wrong with enjoying and celebrating our American way of life.
“Memorial Day is about gratitude and remembrance. It is about honoring the men and women who made it possible for us to gather here today in peace.
“But the reason that here is a Memorial Day-the reason that we are gathered here-is to remember those who made our way of life possible.
“They truly are guardians of our freedom.”
Commander Mattson ended his speech by asking folks to drive by or visit a local cemetery and note the flags that fly there. “Remind yourself their lies a veteran, a man or woman who fulfilled their commitment to this nation. Also, amongst those flags lies a veteran who gave the last full measure, their life for our nation.”
A resolute Mattson concluded his remarks by introducing the 2021-2022 Honor Roll of Deceased Veterans, calling out the names of 16 veterans who had ties to Cook County who had passed away during the last year. This year Bob couldn’t locate the silver bell and small hammer he would strike every time he read the name of a fallen veteran. So, instead, he used a large metal spoon striking a drinking glass to recreate the sound of a silver bell being struck with a small hammer, holding a moment of silence for each person whose name was called before going to the next name.
2022 Memorial Day Roll Call
Charles Skinner, Richard Buchheit, Gerald Elber, Allen Olsen, Eugene Stone, Charles (Chuck) Beberg, Ramsey George Christian, Robert Haring, Kenneth Lind, Jim Hunter, John Bursack, David Anderson, Donald Lovaas, Stuart McIntosh, Dwight Smith, and James Deering.
Following the roll call Reverend Bill Beckstrand closed the inside ceremony in prayer.
Outside, on the covered porch, the rifle salute was conducted and then Jonah Schmidt played Taps.
About 60 or so folks stayed to eat, with the Auxiliary women handling serving meals and clean-up. And then some attendees went to the gravesites of their loved ones to remember, place flowers on the gravesites, and say a prayer of thanks for their service and commitment to country and family.
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