by Cori Hilsgen
news@thenewsleaders.com
Members of the American Legion, Legion Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and families and friends gathered at the old cemetery in St. Joseph for the Memorial Day ceremony.
Those who came honored departed service members who served in the armed forces, protecting our freedoms.
Participants gathered for the ceremony stood in hot, humid weather under sunny skies.
The Rev. Jerome Tupa from the Church of St. Joseph began the ceremony. Names of departed veterans were called out, Taps was played and a gun salute was performed.
After the ceremony, participants were invited to the American Legion in St. Joseph for refreshments.
Memorial Day is known as a holiday to honor all men and women who have died in military service for our country. Originally known as Decoration Day, it became Memorial Day after World War II.
Many people visit memorials and cemeteries on Memorial Day.
photo by Cori Hilsgen
The Honor Guard prepares for services on Memorial Day in the old St. Joseph cemetery.
photo by Cori Hilsgen
Veterans listen as names of departed veterans are called out at the Memorial Day ceremony in the old St. Joseph cemetery.
photo by Cori Hilsgen
Flags lined the streets of St. Joseph on Memorial Day.
photo by Cori Hilsgen
A crowd gathers for Memorial Day services at the old St. Joseph cemetery.
