As clouds moved in and raindrops began to fall, members of American Legion Post 180, Boy Scouts and other members of the community kept their focus on the sacrifice of fallen military heroes. Few bothered to look up at the gathering storm. “May the ceremonies today deepen our reverence for our departed friends and comrades,” said Post Commander Larry Brewe. “Let us renew our pledge of loyalty to our country and its flag. Let us resolve, by word and deed, to emphasize the privilege and duty of patriotism.” Recalling the origins of Memorial Day, which date back to 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington Cemetery who had died in the Civil War, Brewe lamented how the focus of the day has shifted over time to family outings and other recreational activities. “Much of what we enjoy, we owe to the fighting men and women who were willing to give up their lives for our country,” Brewe said. “We owe them a debt we cannot repay,” reminding people to pray for members of the military who are currently serving in dangerous situations. Post Chaplain Don Deeker prayed for Americans to honor those who died by cherishing the ideals for which they fought and for steadfastness in the cause of human rights and liberties. Privileges Earned Through Sacrifice Featured speaker Jack Partridge, Charrette Baptist Church pastor, said that while Memorial Day has become a lot of things to a lot of people, Americans must keep the day as a living “memorial” to those who gave their lives for the country. While the sound of motorcycles on Highway 47 roared in the background, Partridge reminded people that such liberties are directly connected to the sacrifices of those who died serving the country. “The reason why these guys can ride their Harleys up and down the road, and that people can drive their cars and boats without being stopped unlawfully and without being harassed is because people gave — and continue to give — their lives for our freedom,” Partridge said. Recounting a conversation he had at a coffee shop with a friend who is a military chaplain, Partridge said he had been struck by the simple things people around them were doing – reading papers, working at their computers and having meetings. “I told my friend, ‘Most people here have no idea what it takes to allow us to do this in freedom,’” he said. “The men and women who we honor today did not die without purpose,” Partridge added. “They died so that we can be safe and free.” Quoting from the Gospel of John, he said, “‘Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.’ “We remember today those who gave their lives for us and our country.” The ceremonies opened with a color guard from Boy Scout Troops 389 and 485. American flags — one for each person from the area who fought in World War I, World War II and subsequent conflicts — circled the audience. Names were read aloud at the conclusion of the ceremony. The program ended with a rifle salute and the playing of “Taps.”