Memorial Day 2010

[patyrn]

Today marked a beautiful spring day in Howard filled with several activities sponsored by the Carter-Rader American Legion Post #149 and Ladies Auxiliary.  The ladies provided breakfast cinnamon rolls and coffee at the Cox Building, followed by  flags being set up in Grace Lawn Cemetery for the Avenue of Flags.  240 flags were posted along the cemetery lanes, each one having draped the casket of a deceased veteran.  A very meaning Memorial Service was held at mid-morning, complete with a 21-gun-salute and recognition of each veteran and auxiliary member who had passed away since last Memorial Day.  At noon, a community luncheon was held at the Cox Building.  Later in the afternoon, the flags were taken down.  To close the day as the sun was setting, a short service was held at the Veterans Memorial in Jackson Park, complete with the playing of "Taps".  It was a meaningful day, thanks to the efforts of the American Legion and Auxiliary along with numerous community members and youth who helped with the set up and take down of the flags.  It was truly a combined effort by all involved to honor all those who have served their country. 

[Mom70x7]

And here are some of the flags. They looked beautiful today - blue sky, slight wind (for Kansas).

[Clubine Ranch]

Each year we go to Mount Olivet Cemetery in Moline and help with the religious service which is followed by  the American Legion coming  in for the military service. Then it is off to Howard's Grace Lawn Cemetery for their military service and the visiting of the family graves. Each cemetery in the county has a little different service and a different display of flags. Howard's use of the flags that came from deceased Veterans is a beautiful sight to see. Thank you so much for posting those wonderful photos. And thanks so much to the American Legion men and women and the Ladies Auxilary who work so had to make Memorial Day a day to remember. I don't know how many out of state visitors we have had in our home during the holidays that always comment that they have never seen anything so wonderful. Also we can't forget those who labor so hard to get the grass mowed and graves trimmed so nicely. A great job done by all and it is deeply appreciated. Dale and Barbara Clubine

[greatguns]

Speaking of the cemetaries and being mowed up nicely.  The Upola Cemetary looked absolutely beautiful this year and it wouold be so easy for them to let it go.  So a BIG thank you to whoever takes care of it.