At Memorial Day tribute, Roscoe VFW Post 2955 remembers those who gave their lives

The VFW Post 2955 Honor Guard fired a gun salute honoring military members from Roscoe who served in foreign military action.

On May 30, Roscoe VFW Post 2955 presented a memorial program at the Roscoe Cemetery, where a large solemn group gathered at the symbolic grave of the unknown soldier.

Each year, on the last Monday in May, millions of Americans gather to reflect on military members who have served, and those who died for our country.

Memorial Day originated during the American Civil War when citizens placed flowers on graves of those killed in battle. Today, it is a day dedicated to remembrance, reflection and honoring the deceased.

Commander Rubin Hernandez conducted the service. “Memorial Day is not just another day. It is a day to honor those who laid down their lives for freedom.”

VFW Post 2955 Commander Rubin Hernandez addressed a large crowd at Roscoe Cemetery on Memorial Day, May 30. Hernandez talked about the sacrifices of our military long ago and those who are defending our country today.

“Freedom is our greatest gift. This should never be forgotten.” Hernandez said.

Roll was called, naming those deceased veterans from Roscoe who fought and died for our country over the past 100 years.

Each person attending the dedication received a paper poppy, which signifies the blood spilled in battle on Flanders Fields in Belgium during World War I.  From 1914 to 1918, more than a million solders from 50 different countries were wounded, missing in action, or killed.

Following Commander Hernandez, VFW Chaplin David Draeger led a prayer thanking those that gave their lives for our freedom.

The Roscoe Middle School Band, under the direction of music teacher Diane Bolte, played a medley of patriotic songs during the Memorial Day Service at Roscoe Cemetery.

The American flag was raised from half-mast, flying high over the memorial site.