Honoring their service

The sun was shining down in Encampment on this past Memorial Day as friends and family came together to honor the fallen. Since 1984, VFW Post 1625 has held the Memorial Day Ceremony at the Encampment cemetery. This tradition is a constant reminder to the community to give thanks for veterans and fallen soldiers alike, and it was continued this year through the hardships the public has faced due to COVID-19. 

Along with the ceremony, the post places American flags on the graves of all veterans. The Memorial Day ceremony took place among these flags, and it could be shown that this important sentiment was not missed on the crowd.

"We put out the flags to honor the dead," VFW member Bob Herring stated. "It's all in remembrance, done in the heart." 

Memorial Day has been observed since the end of the Civil War to honor those who have died serving in the United States military. Ranging from the Civil to Gulf War, these soldiers are a large part of history. Memorial Day became an official federal holiday in 1971, where it was designated to take place on the last Monday of May. VFW Post 1625 brings the community together on this date, ensuring that those who have died are not forgotten. This ceremony is not only a part of local history, and this tradition ensures that the community is able to recognize those who have come before them. 

"In this time in our country our service people need to be honored," stated Herring.

This annual event allows for this to occur on a local level and brings the public together for a special and memorable ceremony. As this tradition continues to flourish in Encampment, it is important that everyone remember the real reason for a gathering such as this, and continue to celebrate those who have given so much for our freedom.