by Cori Hilsgen
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 attended came to honor departed service members who served in the armed forces to protect our liberty and freedoms.
Participants gathered for the ceremony stood in windy, 50-degree temperatures under cloudy skies.
The Rev. Jerome Tupa from the Church of St. Joseph began the ceremony. Names of departed veterans were called out, flags were flown at half-staff, Taps was played and a gun salute was performed. Participants then gathered for conversation and refreshments at the American Legion in St. Joseph, where a photo slide presentation was shown.
Memorial Day originally started as a way to honor Union soldiers who had died in the American Civil War. It continues as a way 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. Previously observed on May 30, Memorial Day is now observed on the last Monday of May.
Many people visit memorials and cemeteries on this day.
